Lady Lake church that rebuilt after tornado planning large multipurpose building

LADY LAKE Lady Lake Church of God was decimated by tornadoes that struck the area in February 2007, but the congregation regrouped and two years later dedicated a new modern $2.1 million sanctuary off U.S. Highway 27-441.

Now, the church, which became a symbol of perseverance in the wake of the killer storm that took 21 lives in the Lady Lake and Lake Mack areas of the county, is moving ahead with plans to build a 5,000-square-foot multipurpose building as part of a major site plan the Town Council approved several months after the tragedy.

The multipurpose building, one of several planned on the nearly eight-acre site, will be located adjacent to the church on Oak Hill Road and will serve church members as well as area residents, the Rev. Larry Lynn said.

The building's final price has yet to be determined because details are still being nailed down, but a church member has offered to pay for half the construction costs, he said.

"It'll be used for all kinds of activities, from senior adults to preschoolers," said Lynn, who has led the church for 17 years. "We're planning on hosting some community events as well."

The 100- by 50-foot building will feature a half-court gym, a caf area and will have video games and game tables, too.

"As soon as we get a permit to build, we'll begin construction," Lynn said.

The church received an outpouring of support in the aftermath of the destruction. Then-Gov. Charlie Crist, who last week lost his bid to become governor again, attended an outdoor Sunday service days after the catastrophe. He returned six months later to the church site, where he signed a tax relief bill for homeowners who sustained damage during twisters.

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Lady Lake church that rebuilt after tornado planning large multipurpose building