Ted Strickland Community Center Questions and Answers:

What is the Community Center used for?

Currently, the CC is used to book smaller events (birthday parties, baby showers, bridal showers, family reunions, etc.).

What is the difference between the Community Center and the Merle Manders Center (MMC)?

The MMCC is a full service center that is used for larger, more formal events and conferences and it has a variety of rooms used for both social and corporate functions.

How many people will the CC hold?

The CC will hold 80 people seated and 100 standing.  

Does the CC come equipped with tables and chairs?

Yes, there are 10-60" round tables; 5-6 foot rectangle tables and approximately 80 chairs. The furniture will be in the storage room when you arrive for rental. You are welcome to arrange the furniture as you wish; however, all furniture must be broken down and placed in the storage room after the event. 

Can alcohol be served?

Yes, alcohol is allowed for private events (not open to the public); however, it cannot be sold, only served/distributed by an approved alcohol vendor or bartender. A $50 non-refundable alcohol permit fee must be paid to City Hall's occupational tax clerk. Client must also provide the alcohol/bartenders license to serve and transport alcohol, and they must be licensed within the state of Georgia. You are required to pay a larger security deposit. Your event may be monitored by cameras, so there is an expectation of honesty as related to serving alcohol. 

Is smoking allowed at the CC?

Yes, only on the patio and cigarette butts MUST be placed in proper container. Deposits will be retained for cigarette butts being on the patio or in the grass. 

Is there a kitchen in the CC?

Yes, a kitchen is available for you or your caterer and comes with a full sized refrigerator, a stove and oven, a microwave, warmers and an ice maker. 

Is a patio available?

Yes, a patio is available off of the side of the CC.

Is there any AV equipment in the CC?

No AV equipment is available; however, you are welcome to bring your own equipment into the center.

Can consecutive rentals be held at the CC?

Clients are welcome to rent consecutive Sundays for a period of 6 months while they are in transition to the area or while their current location is under construction.

Is the CC available for rent every day of the year?

No, the CC is closed on major holidays and may be closed for rental during election times. Please inquire about particular dates. 

Do we need to clean-up after using the CC?

Yes, you are responsible for cleaning the CC and receipt of your security deposit depends on it. There is a check-off sheet for you, so that you are aware of everything required. 

Does the City have any outdoor facilities for rent?  

Yes, we have eight park pavilions that can be reserved for either half-days or the full day.  

What are the cancellation policies for CC?

Lessee seeks to cancel this Lease for any reason prior to the date of occupancy, Lessee shall do so in writing and may be entitled to a partial refund of the according to the below schedule. Lessee shall be liable for a $25.00 nonrefundable fee for cancellations made within 24 hours. Thereafter, the following cancellation terms apply.  

If the event is contracted to occur on a weekend (Friday, Saturday or Sunday) event (wedding, shower, meeting, etc.), then the following fees apply:

       I. If a cancellation is made less than 30 days prior to event date, no monies will be refunded.

       II.If a cancellation is made 30 or more days prior to the event, fifty percent (50%) of rental amount is refunded and remaining rental amount and security deposit is retained. 

If the event is contracted to occur during the week (Monday-Thursday), the following  cancellation fees apply:

I. Client must cancel, in writing, at least ten (10) working days prior to the event or they are responsible for paying the entire rental amount.

Change of Dates

Lessee shall be liable for a $50.00 change of date fee.  If the revised date is unavailable, Lessee may cancel and the cancellation terms described in this Section 5.2 shall apply.

What cities are near the Community Center? 

Rex (5 miles), Ellenwood (7 miles), Jonesboro (8 miles), Morrow (8 miles), McDonough (9 miles), Forest Park (12 miles), Hampton (17 miles), Fayetteville (18 miles), Conyers (18 miles), and Atlanta (20 miles).