The new Community Center Committee will be a permanent committee in Newtown.

Its current, short-term goal is to work with Director Matthew Ariniello to create policies, organizational structure, membership, financial overviews, and fundraising options, according to committee Chairman Kinga Walsh.

At a meeting Tuesday, August 21, committee members adopted the following mission statement: “The Newtown Community Center is a multi-generational hub that enhances our community by promoting social interaction, health and wellness, creative opportunities, and personal growth”.

Director Ariniello said, “The goal of the committee was to develop a mission statement that reflects inclusiveness for all. In addition, we hope to establish a foundation in the community and continue to address the current needs while preparing for the future.”

He added, “I want to the thank the committee for recognizing the core values and intentions of the center while going through this process.”

The Board of Selectmen recently appointed the panel. Those appointed members are Chairman Kinga Walsh, Brian Hartgraves, Bill Buchler, Bill Manfredonia, Nancy Doniger, Doria Linnetz, Jeff Tousignant, Fred Taylor, and Cheyanne Wirtz. Also participating on the committee in a nonvoting capacity is Ian Hockley, who lost his son in the Sandy Hook shooting.

Appointed Community Center Committee members have a two-year term. See committee meeting agendas and minutes at newtown-ct.gov.