City Council Debates Future of Historic Pump House

In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the future of the pump house, weighing options between mothballing the structure or pursuing a restoration project. The conversation highlighted the potential for a public-private partnership, particularly with the local Chamber of Commerce, which has expressed interest in relocating its offices to the site.

Council members reviewed insights from previous work sessions, noting that mothballing the building might not be the most beneficial option, despite it preserving the structure temporarily. Instead, there was a strong consensus to focus on restoration, with several members advocating for immediate action to secure funding and finalize partnerships.

Concerns were raised about the financial implications of restoring the pump house, with estimates suggesting costs could reach up to $4 million. Discussions included the possibility of utilizing rent from the Chamber or other tenants to offset restoration expenses. Council members emphasized the importance of ensuring that the restoration does not detract from the financial viability of the depot, which currently houses tenants that may need to be replaced.

The mayor was tasked with exploring funding avenues, including potential grants for historical preservation, while also considering the timeline for the project, which could extend into 2026. The meeting concluded with a commitment to move forward with the restoration plan, contingent on securing a suitable tenant and addressing financial concerns.