With 2023 almost in the books, the Mineola Civic Center reported it has had a good year.

Center board President Davis Collett said rentals are up for RV spaces and center facilities, the new pickle ball courts are always in use, and the facility came out ahead financially for the first 11 months of the year.

The private center (it receives no government support and is run by a non-profit) held its annual meeting last Wednesday.

Improvements throughout the year were outlined, along with planned upgrades for 2024 and beyond.

One employee was added during the year to keep up with the interior, which has several meeting rooms and a large hall available for rent.

Renovations in the Dogwood Room were completed in June to include new flooring, lighting, sound system and paint.

A similar refresh is going on in the Magnolia Room, and the Pecan Room is also planned for upgrades.

The Pecan is used extensively during RV rallies, Collett said.

Meredith Hall, the large banquet facility, is also due for improvements, which will be expensive, Collett explained.

Board member Mark Chamblee detailed the progress that has been made on the grounds of the 38-acre property, including the irrigation system and new plants, which suffered from a late freeze followed by a summer drought.

One of the goals is a disc golf practice facility on the northwest corner of the property. Plans for a dog park that were shelved several years ago are also back up for discussion.

Much work has been completed clearing dead trees, and the Kiwanis Club sponsored shade sails for the splash pad that were installed in 2023.

Manager Lisa Bright, who moved up from assistant with the retirement of Nancy Murphy last year, earned high praise, along with the rest of the staff, including caterer Tyler Brown.

Collett said the requirement that the manager live on site was adjusted, as Bright has a residence in the community. It is now being used by the groundskeeper so that an employee remains on site.

Other future projects include additional new pickle ball courts and a walking trail.

Architect Raul Martinez fielded a question about possible electrical system upgrades.

He said it was looked at in 2021 at a cost of $250,000, and the board will be working with a consultant to see how phased upgrades might be incorporated.

Brenda Martinez reviewed the financials, with income of $384,029 and expenses of $367,236.

Income includes an annual contribution from the Meredith Foundation, which was $200,000 this year. RV rentals generated $98,102 and room rentals $46,125.

Collett said the $2.7 million endowment generated about $85,000 this year. The center receives 3% of investment income and will receive 5% when the principle reaches $3 million.

New board members Owen Tiner and Wanda Dubbs were recognized. The board will have three more openings after the first of the year.