During a recent Lehigh City Council meeting, community members passionately advocated for the reopening of the Utah Southern Railroad Depot museum, emphasizing its historical significance and the extensive efforts made to restore it. The depot, which is the oldest building in Lehigh, underwent a restoration costing over $500,000, primarily funded through donations and grants.

Speakers highlighted that the restoration was intended for public use, particularly for the children of Lehigh, and expressed disappointment over the museum's closure. They noted that artifacts collected with care and expense were removed in 2020, and the interior was repurposed for office space, which they deemed disrespectful to the community's heritage.

Community members reported receiving verbal support from city councilors for the museum's reopening and urged the council to formalize this support through a resolution. They also mentioned that local families, including the Stice family, are willing to assist in maintaining the museum and organizing tours at no additional cost.

The advocates proposed plans for interactive displays and rotating exhibits to keep the museum engaging and relevant. They stressed that delaying the decision to reopen the museum is detrimental, arguing that the building rightfully belongs to the citizens of Lehigh and should serve as a space for heritage appreciation.

The meeting concluded with a call for the council to act in favor of preserving and honoring Lehigh's history, ensuring that the depot remains a resource for the community.