The Abbeville City Council passed a resolution Tuesday giving Mayor Roslyn White the authority to look into the possible acquisition of St Theresa Community Center. The facility, which was built in the late 1990s, has been underutilized in recent years. “I was initially contacted to see if the city would have any use for, or interest in, the building.” stated Abbeville Mayor Roslyn White. “It is my understanding the church has considered selling the building, but would like to see the building utilized in a way that continues to serve the community.”
 
The mayor presented the item to council proposing the opportunity to provide a dedicated indoor recreation facility for sports such as basketball, volleyball and pickle ball within the city limits. She provided an example of a similar recreation facility she recently visited in West Monroe. The Rec at 7th Street Square, a family-oriented sports center, offers a variety of sports programs.
 
“Currently, most biddy basketball games are played outside of the city around the parish including as far away as Henry. There are many children in our community who do not have transportation to get to these facilities.” continued Mayor White. She also cited growing interest in pickle ball and indoor volleyball.
 
If the city were to move forward with acquiring the property, the proposal would include a fee for entry to offset the operational cost. The Rec at 7th Street Square charges a $2 per entry and also offers monthly passes for singles and families.
 
“In government, part of our job is to identify the needs of our community and look for ways to serve those needs. If we can find a way to help the St Theresa Community and provide a safe comfortable place in the center of our city for adults and children to enjoy indoor recreation, we should explore the opportunity.”
 
The resolution passed with a unanimous vote from the council. The item will come back to the council for formal consideration once more details are available.