|
By Bob Weaver
The Senior Center in Grantsville will be purchasing an adjacent building and
lot for storage, projects and parking. Senator Donna Boley has advised
CCCOA Director Mike Ritchie that $160,000 from the Budget Digest has been
allocated for the project. The property allows access to the Senior Center
basement.
Johnson property to be acquired
"Senator Boley took this project and ran with it," said Ritchie. "We are
grateful for her efforts toward obtaining the funds."
The .319 acre lot and concrete garage is located behind the Senior Center,
and is now currently owned by Johnson Tire Company. Ritchie said the
center's vans can now come off the street.
"This is an excellent building with a wash bay. We expect to use it for some
community programs. There will be ample parking for seniors and visitors,"
he said. "The property was up for sale, so it was a now or never kind of deal
for us."
Calhoun Counties senior population is among the highest in West Virginia,
with West Virginia leading the nation with elderly population.
Ritchie, his assistant Brenda McBride, and the center's staff have raised an
additional $250,000 or "new project" money during their first year operating
the center. "We are working hard for the seniors of Calhoun County. Our
newest goal is toward expanding services in southern Calhoun. We expect to
make considerable progress in that area during the next year," he said.
| 
