A fire that started in a storage room Monday morning at the Rolling Meadows Community Center, 3705 Pheasant Drive, melted electrical panels and caused significant smoke and water damage to the auditorium, gymnasium and library, according to Rudolph Nelson, director of parks and recreation.
No one was injured in the fire, which began about 7:30 a.m., well before children were to arrive for preschool programs. The building is also a senior center.
“Apparently there were some combustibles that were leaning against a space heater, and that started the fire,” Nelson said. “We estimate that it will cost about $100,000 and take two weeks to restore electrical power and repair the damage.”
Custodial workers and a supervisor were in the building when the fire started, according to Mike Shiller, superintendent of parks. A staff member smelled smoke and pulled the fire alarm.
Fire departments from Rolling Meadows, Schaumburg, Arlington Heights, Mt. Prospect, Elk Grove Village and Palatine helped put out the fire.
“We have been able to reschedule all the activities except dance classes at other locations starting Wednesday,” Nelson said.