Those of you who live in the Serra Mesa area are most likely familiar with the old and abandoned library on the corner of Sandrock & Hurlbut. We contacted the city to discuss the possibility of Horizon Christian Fellowship purchasing or leasing the building with the hopes of opening a Youth Center for the Serra Mesa Community. Our goal is to rehabilitate the building and property, bringing it back to its former glory and then opening a center for the youth of our community.
We were informed that the city planned to partner with a developer to tear down the building and construct a five-story, 60-unit apartment complex. They indicate that it would be for lower incomes and include 30 units for homeless veterans. We are all for affordable housing and helping those who have served our country. However, we also know what impact this can have on the community. Traffic and parking are very valid concerns, especially with several other larger developments going up in the neighborhood.

What we hope to offer

• After renovating the property, we will open the center every day after school. The plan would be to offer a safe place for Serra Mesa youth to be after school. We would be open daily from 3:30 pm-6:00 pm and possibly open on some Saturdays. Below are some of the programs we would hope to offer:
  • Free tutoring
  • Life Skill Courses include how to change oil and tires on a vehicle, computer graphics, and design, preparing for employment, basic budgeting and financial principles, and more.
  • Community services—We believe in giving back to our community. Our center will actively participate in helping local elderly, widows, single mothers, and military spouses and in community clean-up projects. This is an opportunity for our youth to learn the value of service and make a positive impact in their community. Fun activities—The center would have a game room, snack, and milkshake bar.

Some Renderings of what the building could look like after some much needed TLC:

What you can do

We feel that those who live in Serra Mesa should have a say in what happens within the community, especially when it involves a development project that can impact the area.
If you do not favor the city’s plans for a five-story, 60-unit apartment complex and would like to suggest what Horizon would like to do, we ask that you make your voice heard.
Please, take a moment to click the link below and share your thoughts with Council-member Raul Campillo. Your input is invaluable in shaping the future of our community.

Link to online contact form for Council-member Raul Campillo