Brittany Kelley
KYLE — The anticipated community center, located at 1500 Dacy Lane in Kyle, was given its official name at the Aug. 4 Kyle City Council meeting.
Council members Courtney Goza and Melisa Medina and Mayor Yvonne Flores-Cale brought forward the item to name the facility after Adell Hurst.
“I’m so proud to present this item,” said Goza, prior to diving into the history of the honoree.
Hurst was a community member who aided the creation of the nonprofit Kyle Area Senior Zone (KASZ) in the early 2000s. She also worked to preserve the Krug Activity Center, formerly Kyle’s city hall, which later became the home of the organization.
Council has acknowledged Hurst’s work throughout the years, even naming the main ballroom at the Krug Activity Center after her.
“The Krug Activity Center became a symbol of community partnership and the importance of preserving Kyle’s history, while creating opportunities for residents,” said Goza. “Through KASZ, seniors were provided access to programs, activities, educational opportunities, social events, health and wellness resources and other services that strengthened the community.”
“Naming the facility the Adell Hurst Senior Activity Center recognizes the individual whose vision and dedication helped create senior programming opportunities in Kyle and honor the history of partnership between the city, Kyle Area Senior Zone and the community,” said Medina.
The rest of council shared the sentiment that Hurst earned the dedication, but council member Marc McKinney hesitated on the word “senior” in the title, fearing that it may deter youth organizations from using the building, since it was designed to be a community center.
Suggesting “Adell Hurst Senior and Community Center,” was offered as a suggestion by council member Lauralee Harris.
Flores-Cale stated that she was concerned that this would lead to community members stopping by for what they assume is a recreation center, when in reality, the space is available for rent by the community, but it is first and foremost for the older adults.
Additionally, Goza noted that leaving “senior” in the name overall was important to receive grant opportunities.
Harris’ suggested name was praised by KASZ communication and grants director Ellen Ermis, who felt there would be no issue in the adjustment.
After Ermis’ comments, council designated the building as the Adell Hurst Senior and Community Center in a 6-1 vote, with Goza dissenting.
The facility is aiming for a September opening, said Ermis, and will include a commercial kitchen, a designated front desk with two part-time Parks and Recreation staff members, space to begin intergenerational programming and more.
Kyle City Council will meet next at 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 13, for a special meeting.
