MISSION VIEJO : Recreation Center Purchases on Agenda

The purchase of four recreation centers worth an estimated $8 million to $10 million could be approved by the City Council at a special meeting tonight.

The proposal, which has raised some objections from residents leery of the costs but is supported by others who fear that the centers may shut down if not purchased, will be considered during the 6:30 p.m. meeting at City Hall, 26522 La Alameda. City officials are anticipating a large crowd.

The recreation centers are currently owned by the Mission Viejo Co., builder of the planned community, which plans to gradually withdraw from the city by 1995. About 2,000 households in the city pay $70 per month to use the recreation centers.

The city hopes that by purchasing the centers it can lower membership fees and increase use of the facilities.

“This won’t just be a series of community swimming pools, but a place where all different types of recreation programs will be available. This is going to be exciting,” Councilwoman Sharon Cody said.

The four facilities cover a total of 21 acres and include tennis courts, weight workout rooms, swimming pools and multipurpose rooms.

But some citizens are leery about the cost of buying the recreation complexes.

In a city report issued recently, renovation costs for the recreation facilities are estimated at $2.5 million, much of that for refitting the buildings to allow access for the disabled.