Vision for Anderson Center

By Albert F. "Al" Peter

It has been over a year since Anderson Center opened. In that time, the vision for the center has indeed come to fruition, even beyond what was hoped.

A "civic center" has been discussed for many years in Anderson. When the township needed new offices several options were considered, including utilizing existing office space in the township, which would have involved expensive acquisition of land and renovation of existing space just for township headquarters. Expansion of the existing township offices was not considered a viable option.

After the Township acquired the 23 acres behind the old Beechmont Mall, public input was sought on the best use of this site. The highest level of support was for a combined government/center complex. Many public meetings and open houses were held to determine the best design elements. Ample meeting space and a performing arts theater were among the most popular components. Instead of just providing township offices, it became possible to satisfy several needs and provide a new civic facility for all of the residents. The lake was required to enable provide mandated water detention and control flooding on Clough Creek. Overall, the combination of township offices, civic amenities, lake and park has provided a cost effective solution to serve several township needs.

The 223-seat theater is the centerpiece of the facility and is home to the Beechmont Players. Performances by the Cincinnati Chamber Orchestra (our Orchestra-in-Residence), IHM students, the Anderson Community Band, the Forest-Aires, Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park, and other local groups provide a wide-range of entertainment options for residents. Because of the theater's popularity, only a few dates remain open through 2009 and 2010 is "booking up" quickly.

One of the less visible, but extremely important functions of Anderson Center is the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) located in the lower portion of the building. Last winter's ice storm and the hurricane wind damage required activation of the EOC. It has already proven its value in focusing the deployment of our resources and facilitating communications during emergencies. At other times, it serves as a staff training room.

Anderson Center was financed using TIF (Tax Increment Financing) revenues, requiring no additional tax money to construct. Ongoing operation and maintenance expense is offset by rental revenues, and the largely "green" design means the operating costs are modest for a building of this size.

Additions to Anderson Center will include a History Room, opening in October 2009, which will house displays and artifacts from the township's past. The Anderson Township Historical Society has generously agreed to participate in the design and operation of the History Room, as well as provide much of the display material, showing the rich history of Anderson Township. A Veterans' Memorial also is being planned.

Anderson Center is home to the Anderson Area Chamber of Commerce, Anderson Community Television, and Summerfair. These civic tenants provide services to the community and complement the focus on the center of the community.

The 16+ acre site surrounding Anderson Center has been developed into a much-used passive park and lake. Many people include the walking trails as part of their use of the Five Mile trail, while others enjoy the flowers and watch the ducks. The lake has also become a venue for sailing model boats.

In summary, as trustee, I have been gratified that Anderson Center is utilized even beyond what we envisioned when the planning process started more than five years ago. If you haven't been to an event at Anderson Center, please come and enjoy your "center of Anderson" with us.