The former home of the First Baptist Church at The Villages is back on the table for possible purchase by the Amenity Authority Committee.
District Manager Janet Tutt revealed at Wednesday’s AAC meeting that the church’s leaders have had a change of heart about the sale of the building off SE Hwy. 42 currently used as a fellowship hall.
The property, which is golf cart accessible from Clearview Avenue, had been considered for purchase a couple of years ago for $1.2 million. The church pulled it from consideration when appraisals came in too low. It is now being offered for sale by the church at $1.5 million.
Tutt noted that the area has experienced “tremendous change” in recent years, particularly with the addition of the Soulliere Villas.
In addition to the church building, there is 10 acres of “buildable, outdoor recreation” opportunities, Tutt noted.
AAC member Ann Forrester said she would like to see “unique” use of the property.
“This would be an opportunity to expand what we have, without duplicating what we already have,” she said.
AAC member John Wilcox said he has heard “too many negative comments” about the potential purchase of land behind the Rio Grande Family Pool. The area, currently an adhoc dog park, has been criticized due to heavy traffic already in the area and because of the great distance Marion County residents of The Villages would have to travel to use facilities at Rio Grande. In addition, the Rio Grande property is seen as problematic due to a jumble of owners of the various pieces of land.
“This is a great opportunity to get the space we need,” Wilcox said.
The AAC will consider the possible purchase of the property at a future meeting.
