Nonprofit Looking to Build Community Center for Wentzville Heights

The nonprofit organization Hope for the Heights is asking for approval of a conditional use permit and site plan for a community center in the Wentzville Heights.

The community center would be constructed at 1443 Kathleen Drive and be similar in appearance to a residence in order to fit in with the neighborhood setting.

Wentzville Heights, a subdivision located on the west side of Wentzville, has had a reputation for crime and poverty for years. Hope for the Heights is a nonprofit looking to engage and serve the residents of the area.

The center would potentially offer:

• A community computer lab
• Life skills, financial education and job preparedness classes
• After-school activities and tutoring
• Community events like Easter egg hunts and trunk-or-treats
• Spaces for parties and meetings

No one would live on the premises, and the center would rely on volunteer help. The center could also serve a substation for the Wentzville Police Department.

"We believe that an increased police presence would reduce criminal activity in the Heights," the development plan summary states.

Hope for the Heights has asked for permission to use parking spaces at nearby Memorial Park.

The Wentzville Board of Aldermen will consider a resolution to approve the permit and site plan at their regularly scheduled board meeting tonight.