The City has extended the deadline for applications for the newly formed Blue-Ribbon Committee which will provide input and guidance for a proposed Senior/Community Center. The current Senior Center is housed in the former City Library, which is the Powell building. The Powell building is a 100-year-old building which is 4,732 sq. ft. with limited ability to provide programs for our Senior population. According to the census data, Placentia’s population is increasing with the 65 and older age group representing the largest demographic shift. The Senior age group has grown from 9.1% to 13.8% of the City’s total population.
The Backs building which was built in 1970 and is 4,600 sq. ft. in size is the City’s largest facility for special events, classes, community meetings, and large community gatherings. When the building was built in 1970, Placentia’s population was approximately 25,000 compared to today at approximately 53,000. The majority of our Senior population and other residents of all ages utilize our adjacent cities facilities for recreation programs and services. Yorba Linda has a 28,000 sq. ft. Senior/Community Center and Brea has a 51,000 sq. ft. Community Center compared to Placentia’s 4,732 sq. ft. Senior Center and lack of a Community Center. Based upon current and forecasted demographics, there is a significant lack of existing facilities that are adequate enough to handle the current and future needs of the Placentia community. A dual-purpose facility with a minimum of 30,000 sq. ft. is needed to properly serve our seniors and residents of all ages. At the July 20, 2021, City Council meeting, the City Council approved the potential of constructing a proposed multi-use Senior/Community Center and the formation of a Blue-Ribbon Committee. The Blue-Ribbon Committee will be comprised of one (1) resident from each Council district, one (1) resident from the Senior Advisory Committee, one (1) resident from the Parks, Arts and Recreation Commission, and two (2) City Council Members that will work with the Blue-Ribbon Committee and City Staff. Once the Committee is selected, committee members will decide the meeting dates and frequency of meetings. Meetings will be opened to the public.
If you are interested in the Blue-Ribbon Committee, complete and submit the application by Tuesday, August 31st. Click here for the application.