Plans to build Elgin’s first indoor recreation center stayed alive Wednesday night as the City Council, meeting as a committee of the whole, voted 4-3 to keep studying the issue.
The Parks and Recreation Department is recommending construction of a $20 million center that would include an eight-lane swimming pool with decks, racquetball courts, kitchen, a fitness center, a gymnasium and meeting rooms.
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Proponents said they are looking at a downtown site at Kimball Street and Grove Avenue. Construction would involve tearing down the historic Borden buildings.
Mayor Kevin Kelly, who wanted to put the project on hold until officials learn how much it would cost to operate the facility, said the city cannot afford to spend $20 million now. “We’re moving way too fast,” Kelly said.
Other committee members argued that city residents are in sore need of an indoor recreational center.
City staff and park and recreation members will report after projected operating expenses are determined.