Submitted to the WPR
Twenty years may seem like a long time to hold onto a dream, but for the Williams Community Center Association (WCCA), the wait appears to have been a worthwhile one.
Nearly a year ago, Colusa County Supervisors earmarked $250,000 in Block Grant funding for the Williams Community Center project. Now with that funding finally released by the State, Supervisor Mark Marshall (District 3) presented the check to the Williams Community Center Association on February 22.
Previously the county and the WCCA signed a lease agreement that allowed the association to assume complete operational control and maintenance of the former Veterans of Foreign War Post No. 4310 on C Street in Williams.
The WCCA has continued to hold its meetings and other functions in the building, and the Veterans have also had continued access to the building for meetings and civic functions. “And so it will continue,” said Marshall. In presenting the check, Marshall reminded the WCCA that the Veterans would continue to have use of the building as needed.
Marshall commented that the WCCA has been working hard for many years to find a permanent home for the Williams Community Center so that there will be a place for the citizens of the county to gather.
He recognized the countless hours the group had donated to this project, and he stated that it truly gave him great pleasure to present them with the check that will help in making their dream come true.
“With the help of my fellow supervisors these funds will make a total of more the $1 million that the county has contributed to various projects in the city of Williams since I have been on the Board of Supervisors,” said Marshall.
He said he was pleased to add the community center to the list of projects ranging from air conditioning in the Sacramento Valley Museum, to parks for the children and the Community College facility so that our friends and families may seek a college education.
“This community center will provide a place where countless events will be held in coming years,” he said.
“As it was with the other projects, this one would not have been possible without the vision, hard work and commitment of volunteers such as this group.”
Additionally, while the renovations to the building are taking place, Marshall shared that he has made arrangements for a temporary home for the group.
The WCCA will temporarily be housed in the old Williams Justice Court Facility.
Renovations to the Veterans Hall will include new rest rooms, a kitchen remodel, upgraded heat and air, and a four and one half foot expansion of the main hall.
WCCA President Ron Simmons commented that the exterior of the building would receive new stucco and other cosmetic treatments.
The renovation project has been sent out for bids. The bids are scheduled to be opened on March 6. ■