City Council hears presentation about new community center

Design graphic shows the proposed community center to the left of the Menifee Library.

By Doug Spoon, Editor

Menifee City Council members and residents got a look at preliminary design graphics last week during a special workshop regarding the Community Center to be built next to the Menifee Library.

Community input on the center was gathered previously during a public workshop and through 272 surveys filled out by residents. There will be a future public and City Council workshop to discuss the next phase of design, including feedback received in last Wednesday’s meeting.

The center, previously approved by the City Council, will be built on land adjacent to the library at La Piedra and Menifee Roads. The land was transferred from Riverside County to the City of Menifee for use as a community facility. It is envisioned as a place for performing arts, club meetings and other public functions.

The presentation was made to the City Council by Bill Denis and Daniel Hidalgo of the design firm TSK. Graphics presented were described as the end of the schematic phase, with final design to be completed sometime next year.

The feedback sought on Wednesday concerned the exterior of the buildings, which will sit on the back northwest corner of the lot, with parking in front. Three options for the exterior look were presented, without specific materials or color preferences. Council members asked questions about specifics of the design but did not settle on an option at this point.

Preliminary design for the interior includes a grand lobby with room for public art displays; three meeting rooms that can open up to one large room; and a performance space featuring a theater that could seat more than 100 people. Details of those interior spaces will be more specific at future meetings.