TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WCTV) – The Apalachee Ridge Technology and Learning Center could soon have a new owner.
The Greater Apalachee Ridge Estates Neighborhood Association (GARENA) has operated the center since 2017.
The city has owned the center since 2001, but this ownership has put limits on what the center can do.
Now, the association is asking the city to sell or transfer ownership of the center to them.
The center has become limited in the funds it receives to provide resources for the community.
The city has also been allocating $10,000 annually since 2017. GARENA President Christic Henry said that the money helps but it’s still not enough.
“Sixteen chairs here to teach and learn at any time, and it really was focused initially on this neighborhood,” Henry said. “But just imagine if we could create a community-focused, community-centric model that deals with the technology needs, technology access, technology learning. And we can replicate this in a sustainable way throughout the city. That would be a tremendous value to folks that aren’t tech oriented.”
Neighborhood leaders said the facility has limited space due to site restrictions, but one of their most successful events, called a “tech up,” allows the community to come and receive free computer repairs and more through their partnerships.
With the growing technology industry, the center is eager to expand not only the building, but tech literacy as well. Simple everyday tasks now require technology, and it is their mission to use their resources to teach the community.
Tallahassee City Commissioner Curtis Richardson said he supports the proposal.
“They have put a lot of funding into making improvements in conjunction with the city,” Richardson said. “So I think it will be a very successful venture, and I’m looking forward to them, of course, taking over the facility and planning programs, not only for the neighborhood but for this part of our city.”
The city commission will discuss the center at their meeting next Wednesday.
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