EDITORIAL
There’s really no need to question it. Our senior population is
increasing -- not only in Huntington Beach, but nationwide. And it’s up
to us -- as citizens and taxpayers -- to do something about not only
finding enough activities for them but places to congregate and
socialize, as well.
Huntington Beach officials have set aside $150,000 to study the
feasibility of turning the bankrupt Pacifica Hospital and Tower into an
expanded senior center. The city’s goal is to purchase the five acres
comprising Pacifica, as well as an aquatic facility and two-acre park.
The need to replace the Michael E. Rodgers Seniors’ Center, at the
corner of 17th Street and Orange Avenue, has been evidenced in the past
when seniors taking dance classes were relegated to a cramped side room
because workers had to set up the auditorium for an event that night.
There just isn’t enough room.
For decades, seniors have flocked here for social and support
services. But in 1998, city officials began looking for ways to expand
the two-acre center. Currently, about 6,000 people use the senior center
each month, including veterans and other groups. Sometimes, space is
rented to non-senior groups for events, taking up much-needed activity
space.
Center officials have said more residents than ever have reached their
golden age. In 1990, about 30,000 people, or 16%, were over the age of 55
in Huntington Beach. That total is expected to rise to 36,000 by 2010.
Center officials want to be prepared because the Baby Boomers are also
coming up in age.
The Pacifica site could offer everything these seniors need. Besides
the much-needed space, the site is also centrally located near the Five
Points Shopping Center, would have access to public transportation and is
surrounded by senior housing.
The city’s study, however, is only in its infancy stages. It could
take months to really determine if Pacifica is the right site, and by
then, another buyer could come in.
Huntington Beach should act swiftly, but cautiously.
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