Millman Center Reopens to Rave Reviews

VILLAS – Before renovation, the Millman Community Center was described as outdated and institutional.
“It’s a million times better, there’s no comparison,” said Deb Johns, banquet manager. “This is a fully renovated, modern, tasteful building.”
Lower Township officials and Lower Township Chamber of Commerce members attended an opening event at the Millman Community Center Nov. 12. Guests enjoyed a meal prepared in the new kitchen.
The building, constructed in the 1960s, underwent a top to bottom renovation. A number of repairs were on the horizon, according to James Ridgway, assistant superintendent of parks and recreation.
“Now, it has a warm feeling to it,” he said.
The large room seats 150 persons at tables and includes a stage and a commercial kitchen. A meeting room in the community center accommodates 50 persons.
The building is equipped with Smart TV, wireless internet and a new sound system with wireless microphones, said Ridgway. He said the kitchen includes an ice machine, eight-burner stove, oven, microwave, refrigerator, and a Beer Meister.
“All the town’s people can benefit from it if they choose to use the services because it’s very, very reasonable,” said Johns.
Rental fees include a recreation department staff member on hand to assist during and clean up after the event.
Resident Janet Pitts complimented the lighting that she said set a pleasant mood for the large room.
Ridgway said the center is ideal for weddings, bridal and baby showers, holiday parties, banquets, receptions, meetings, funeral luncheons and educational meetings. He said rental fees for the Millman Community Center were very competitively priced.
Community groups will use the building at no charge Monday-Thursday with the center concentrating on rentals Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
“I think the people of Lower Township are going to be really proud when they see this facility,” said Township Manager Mike Voll. “It’s better than I ever dreamed.”
Voll thanked Ridgway, Lower Township Construction Official Gary Playford and Parks and Recreation Superintendent Mitch Plenn for their hard work in the seven-month renovation project.
He said the intent of the township is for rentals to cover the cost of operating the building.
For more information on reserving the Millman Community Center, 209 Bayshore Rd., Villas, call Deb Johns, (609) 886-2005, ext. 100.
The public is invited the tour the facility Sat. Nov. 16 beginning at 11 a.m.