Galveston council pushes for Juneteenth Museum funding at La Morgan site

The Galveston City Council meeting on May 22, 2025, highlighted significant community discussions surrounding the proposed Juneteenth Museum and its potential location at La Morgan School. Community leaders and residents voiced strong support for the museum, emphasizing its importance as a cultural and economic catalyst for the area. Robert Quintero, president of Galveston Lulag Council 151, urged the council to not only pass a resolution in support of the museum but also to allocate funding from hotel occupancy taxes or Community Development Block Grant funds to ensure its establishment in a historically distressed area.

Rosalyn Jackson, owner of Club 68, echoed these sentiments, stressing the museum's relevance to all residents, regardless of race, and the need for the council to take decisive action. Taurus, another community advocate, expressed frustration over the council's previous inaction and urged immediate amendments to the resolution to include La Morgan as the museum's site. He highlighted the urgency of the matter, given the approaching end of the current council's term.

In addition to the museum discussions, the council addressed other agenda items, including the approval of a contract for audio-visual upgrades in the Public Works Training Room. Despite concerns over spending during a hiring freeze, the council ultimately approved the contract, recognizing the long-term benefits of improved communication and training capabilities.

The council also considered establishing beach user fees at various access points, with some members advocating for further discussion to address parking concerns in nearby neighborhoods. The proposal was deferred for additional review, reflecting the council's commitment to balancing community needs with access to public spaces.

Overall, the meeting underscored the community's desire for cultural recognition through the Juneteenth Museum and the council's ongoing efforts to address local infrastructure and accessibility issues. As discussions continue, residents remain hopeful for tangible outcomes that will enhance Galveston's cultural landscape and public amenities.