The long awaited dream of a Macon County Senior Citizen's center is finally being fulfilled.

Last Wednesday afternoon, the MCSC Board of Directors signed an agreement to purchase the former Sears building on the Highway 52 Bypass East from owners Dan and Sheila Sarmiento.

The building is huge in scale, at 7,000 square feet, compared to the tiny area the seniors utilize now at the Upper Cumberland Human Resource Agency.

Much discussion has been occurring over the many possibilities offered by the new building, from a stage for performances, a walking track around the inside in building, areas to play bingo, room for a pool table, eventually a place to do crafts and learn new skills, and also an area for a small kitchen.

“In today's board meeting we discussed what a spectacular event this is for Macon County,” said Chairman, Dennis Wolford. This is an exciting moment, and due to many, many efforts of the members and the board of directors.

Wolford said that at first the former Sears building was out of reach financially, but that through negotiations with the owner an agreement was reached. The Sarmiento's were pleased to see the building be used for such a wonderful community purpose.

Nestle Waters donated $158,000 to the senior citizen center through the county. With the Macon County area attracting more and more seniors, the new center is needed and will be utilized for many purposes including various senior education, nutrition screenings, exercise, and other services.

“This is so exciting,” said Jamie Dallas, Director of the MCSC center, who was thrilled about the new building, saying “it is truly a historical moment for Macon County.”