Resident asks HMB church to consider relocating
My wife and I want to express our deepest sympathy to the members of the Hillsboro Mennonite Brethren Church. Almost 50 years ago the Parkview Church, then in the country, also burned to the ground. We were there, and good came out of disaster.
We also want to thank the fire department, city employees, police officers, city manager, council, and the many volunteers who put in long and demanding hours.
I want to share some thoughts that have been heard around town to encourage the church to think outside the box. This is not to say that many of you aren't doing this.
Here are the ideas I believe have merit. Locate the church campus on the highway. This would add to your opportunity to have room and to grow. If located on the southeast corner of the main entrance to Hillsboro, it would enhance the image of Hillsboro and provide an opportunity for the church to witness to every traveler on the highway. I encourage you to ask the question, where can we best serve the Lord and be a light to the world.
The area previously owned by Vogt's Grocery could become a city parking lot, at least until a developer comes along. The present church location could be made into a downtown park. Possibly a grant could be gotten to help fund these developments. The parking area and park would be an asset to the Arts and Crafts event.
John Wiebe
Hillsboro
