Print

Email story

Comment

Email editor

Neighborhood report

State funding study of community center

The $250,000 study is the first step in developing an east Hillsborough center for banquets, classes and cultural events.

By LETITIA STEIN
Published December 2, 2005

For years, people have complained that Brandon lacks a large facility for swank parties and conferences.

Soon, that could change.

The state is funding a $250,000 study to develop a community center in east Hillsborough that could host banquets, health services, cultural events or educational classes.

"We're trying to keep our options open until we hear from the community," said Joe Incorvia, the county's community planning manager.

In the coming months, the county will ask residents to make a wish list of Brandon's needs. First, it has hired a private consultant, URS Corp., to survey community programs and facilities. Planners will look at everything from recreation to social services.

The effort originated with lawmakers, who included the money for the study in the state budget. The County Commission signed off on the plan Nov. 16. Commissioner Ronda Storms gave credit to state Senate president Tom Lee, R-Brandon, and state Rep. Trey Traviesa, R-Brandon.

But the study is only a first step.

"It's absolutely not a sure deal thing," Incorvia said. "It's trying to determine what the needs are in the Brandon community."

After the needs are identified, politicians can start talking about finding the money to build a facility.

For now, anyone can share ideas with Jeff Jenkins, who is managing the study for the county. He can be reached at jenkinsj@hillsboroughcounty.org or 276-8341.

Letitia Stein can be reached at 661-2443 or lstein@sptimes.com

[Last modified December 1, 2005, 09:34:11]