In a recent meeting of the Chino Valley Town Council, members gathered to discuss the future of several historic buildings that are part of the town's rich heritage. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of urgency as council members reviewed a stabilization report prepared by Bill Otwell of Otwell Associates, which outlined the necessary steps to preserve four key structures: the dairy barn, milk barn, bunkhouse, and mule barn.

The report highlighted that while stabilization efforts are essential to prevent further deterioration, they do not equate to full restoration. The council is considering two options for the mule barn, which is in particularly poor condition. One option involves costly demolition, while the other suggests a more economical approach of fencing the site to restrict access, allowing time to seek potential partners for future restoration efforts.

The estimated costs for these stabilization efforts are significant. The full stabilization plan, including demolition of the mule barn, would total approximately $197,650. However, opting for fencing instead could reduce costs to around $168,798. Council members expressed concern about the budget implications, noting that the additional expenses would exceed the current allocation for property acquisition by over $60,000.

Despite the financial challenges, the council recognized the historical importance of these buildings, which are the last remnants of the Fred Harvey farm, a significant part of U.S. railroad history. The Fred Harvey hotels and restaurants were pioneers in establishing tourist destinations in the West, and the council sees preserving these structures as a way to honor that legacy.

As discussions unfolded, council members emphasized the need to explore grants and partnerships to alleviate the financial burden on taxpayers. They acknowledged the importance of balancing historical preservation with the town's infrastructure needs, particularly road improvements.

Ultimately, the staff recommended moving forward with the purchase of the historic property for $150,000 and transferring funds from contingency to cover the stabilization costs. The council's decision will not only impact the preservation of Chino Valley's history but also shape the community's identity for generations to come. As the meeting concluded, the sentiment was clear: the town stands at a crossroads, where the choice to invest in its heritage could yield lasting benefits for the community.