Future of Millbrae Community Center Discussed at Meeting

On Monday evening, more than 100 people attended a special meeting at City Hall to share their ideas on what amenities and services Millbrae’s next community center should have following the fire that destroyed the former facility.

“Even though the pain of losing the community center is still fresh, we have an opportunity to build a new community center that better meets our current and future needs,” said Millbrae Mayor Anne Oliva. “Tonight’s meeting is an important step in the rebuilding process, and will be one of many opportunities for the community to help guide the vision towards a new center we can all be proud of.”

A pool. More amenities for children and teens. Better activities for seniors. A garden. A gym. These were a few of more than 50 ideas shared by attendees on what they would like to see at the next community center.

“There isn’t a place for our teens to hang out at,” said one resident attending the meeting. “Hanging out at McDonald’s or Walgreens shouldn’t be their only options. We need a safe and good place for our teens to hang out at in the evenings and on the weekends.”

“I know this is a wish list and could get expensive, but I think we need a pool and gym,” said another resident.

“I would like an ice skating rink,” said one resident “We have an active hockey, figure skating, and curling community here in Millbrae. We could be a city that supports and trains future Olympians.”

While the cost to provide all the suggested amenities did come up, Mayor Oliva and Council Member Wayne Lee pointed out that this meeting was a brainstorming session, and that the purpose was to collect ideas. Funding requirements and costs will be discussed at future planning meetings.

Millbrae residents who were unable to attend the meeting and wish to provide input into the community center rebuild discussion can do so by submitting their comments at:
www.millbrae2040.com

The complete community meeting can be watched here:
https://www.youtube.com/user/MillbraeMCTV/videos

The Millbrae Community Foundation is collecting donations from anyone wishing to help contribute to the rebuilding of the new community center. www.millbraefoundation.org

– SUBMITTED FOR PUBLICATION ON BEHALF OF THE CITY OF MILLBRAE.