The village hall is now a socio-cultural center followed by the unexpected honorary attribute of the name of Raymond Audouard, former mayor of the town. This, however, implies a review of the history and highlights of this building erected in the years 1974-76.
The major decision to start this construction came from the municipality of Henri Calmettes, after a debate centered on the estimated cost, which had a fairly strong impact on the municipal budget. Operation followed with attention supported by Michel Soulié, 2nd deputy, very active, acceding to the function of Mayor from 1977 to 1983. With him the successive municipalities Audouard – Laurens – Cassanis proceeded in turn, to fittings and modernizations: heating, installation of a reception area and friendly bar, upgrading of kitchens, etc. The latest interior renovation work marked by unforeseen anomalies which cause part of this building to come off very seriously, even at risk of collapse. Hence the obligation today for the municipality to open a new site there, which has become urgent. At the same time, the local officials considered an extension, the repair and embellishment of the facade, the thermal renovation of the whole, insulation, change of joinery, new heating, electricity.
212,000 euros of work
The amount of work, first estimate 212,000 euros, to be revised upwards after knowledge of new offers concerning plumbing and exterior joinery.
The village hall will be closed until the end of August and perhaps a little beyond, depending on the progress of the biggest works, the municipal authority however careful not to penalize the user associations.
Instead, Dr. Raymond Audouard directed his sense of humanism and service to the Villeneuve community and immediate surroundings, to the development of a retirement home, today Ehpad. For its effective energy, unshakeable for several years, it is here that its name deserves to be remembered, hailed and highlighted.