The time has come for a community center to be built, said Ward 6 Alderman Andre’ Spiller.

On Tuesday, Spiller asked the other members of the Board to approve a measure that would develop a proposal for such a center, and put it into effect no later than July 2026.

“For far too many years, our citizens have called on us to lead — especially in supporting our youth and elderly. While the city does provide warming and cooling sites during extreme weather, I feel we must do more to meet the daily needs of all residents. Our city exists because of its people, we as a Board exist because of these same people. Therefore, it is time we fully acknowledge that truth and take action,” Spiller said. “We have long discussed the idea of a community center. The time for talk is over; the time for action is now.”

Spiller then proposed an ordinance to establish a special committee of three aldermen, appointed by the mayor, to “develop a comprehensive proposal for a community center, including its mission, location(s), and funding options.”

The committee would present its findings no later than Nov. 15, 2025. The Board would review, edit, and seek preliminary approval of the project no later than March 15, 2026. Afterward, the mayor would schedule three public hearings at various locations throughout the city to get input and feedback from its citizens, prior to July 1, 2026.

“The Board shall then consider the final approval of the community center project no later than July 15, 2026,” Spiller said, presenting the proposal in the form of a motion. The aldermen voted unanimously in favor.