In a landmark decision years in the making, Millcreek Township supervisors voted 2-1 to purchase the Zem Zem Shrine Club property for $3.635 million, paving the way for a community center.

More than 80 residents filled the room to witness the pivotal vote.

With 42 acres on West 38th Street, the site has been discussed as a potential location for a community hub since 2005, when the Shrine Club first expressed interest in selling.

Millcreek board member Kim Clear emphasized the importance of the decision, calling it an investment in the township’s future. “If we're not growing, we're dying,” Clear said, underscoring the need to create lasting infrastructure for the community.

“I have had thousands of students. I want them to decide to stay in Millcreek Township,” she added. “I’m excited for our residents. I’m excited I’m on this journey. Investing in our township and investing in our future is what we’ve done tonight.”

 Clear shares, located within a 15-minute drive for all Millcreek residents, the property offers space to expand programs and services for the entire community.

Zem Zem member Jim Richardson, who has been involved with the organization for over 40 years, expressed mixed emotions about the transition but ultimately supported the sale. “It’s exactly what we were hoping—that we had a history of community service, and that history is going to continue under Millcreek’s tutelage,” Richardson said.

According to township projections, the Parks and Recreation Department’s revenue could grow from $173,000 to $837,447 with the addition of the new facility.

However, the decision was not without opposition. Former township supervisor Sue Weber, who served for 12 years, questioned the economic viability of the purchase. “If we can build it on our own property and build it new so it's energy efficient, so it's economical, so it's the right size—I'm for it. But I'm for it in that manner,” Weber said.

A facility Condition assessment estimates an additional $3.8 million will be needed over the next decade for maintenance and improvements. Clear believes the investment is justified. “For our residents to say, ‘I'm going to stay here, and I'm going to invest in the township itself,’” she said. “That’s the goal.”