By Julie Huss
DERRY — Many questions remain unanswered as supporters of a senior center push forward on their mission to raise money for the project.
Senior center proponents went before the Town Council to ask for money to help build a 5,000-square-foot center at the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Derry.
The senior center group is asking for $396,000 from the town. A total of $1.2 million is needed to get the project built and to establish an operative reserve.
Details on the center's proposed location were unveiled last year. The planned center also would give seniors the opportunity to use the Boys and Girls Club's existing 30,000-square-foot facility for activities and programs, according to Nutfield Senior Center Corp. president Dr. John Moody.
Right now, many questions remained unanswered concerning some of the details of the center, including insurance, liability, and fee structure for activities and programs.
"We still have a long way to go," Moody said.
Resident Joseph DiChiaro said more information is needed as the plan moves forward.
"There are a lot of loose ends before you can commit money to this project," he said. "A lot of concerns need to be addressed."
Councilor Kevin Coyle wanted to know what would happen if the center failed at its Boys and Girls Club location and who would take ownership of the space. He also voiced concerns about neighborhood reaction to the center. He asked Moody for a more definite staffing plan and other details.
The council may vote on the town appropriation at its meeting April 6.
To learn more about the senior center plan or to help with fundraising, call 434-7838 or e-mail info@nutfieldseniorcenter.com. Mail contributions to: Nutfield Senior Center, 3 Horseshoe Drive, Derry, 03038.
