An over two-year wait will come to an end this Monday. Milner Recreation Center is set to make its community debut June 21 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 12:30 p.m.

“Please come out and celebrate with us. We couldn’t have done it without our great citizens,” said McMinnville Parks and Recreation director Scott McCord. “We decided to have two events, a ribbon cutting on opening day and a huge celebration on July 18 from 2 to 6 p.m. to say thank you to our citizens. Everyone is welcome at both events.”

As for Monday, the Wellness Center opens at 6 a.m., followed by the entire building at 8 a.m. The ribbon cutting will be held in front of the building near the flagpole. The ceremony will include unveiling a plaque and several speakers as Doug Milner and his family are honored for all they have done for the city and its residents. 

There will be giveaways, games, crafts, a band, catered food, class demonstrations, guided tours, and a slide show of renovation pictures.

“We would love for people to bring old photographs of the facility,” said McCord. “This is a celebration for those who contributed to the original building and the renovation. We plan to have every city department represented to help showcase the facility and also advertise what they do.”

There will also be a dedication of a memorial garden for Sally Shelton. She was a master gardener and club members received permission from McCord to honor her with a memorial garden in the three islands where the flag is located. 

Shelton passed away Jan. 17 at age 88.

July 18 was chosen for the huge celebration to coincide with Milner Recreation Center’s expanded hours. Beginning that day, the facility will be open on Sundays from 1 to 6 p.m. and hours will expand on Fridays and Saturdays to 8 p.m.

More about the July 18 “huge celebration” will be provided as plans are finalized.