Ashland Commission approves construction of new conference center at Paramount site

The Ashland City Commissioners meeting on June 10, 2025, was marked by a pivotal decision regarding the construction of a new conference center, which will be located on the parking lot of the Paramount Arts Center. This decision comes after extensive discussions and public input over the past five months, with city officials weighing the benefits and costs associated with various proposed sites.

Commissioner Martin emphasized the importance of data-driven decision-making, noting that the commission had thoroughly analyzed feedback from the community, which included a mix of support and opposition to the project. He highlighted that while the majority of responses were against placing the center near the Paramount, the commission ultimately had to consider the financial implications of each location. The projected operational costs indicated that the hotel site would incur a greater financial loss compared to the Paramount site, which played a significant role in the final decision.

Victor Wilson, a local resident, expressed enthusiasm for the synergy between the Paramount Arts Center and the new convention center, suggesting that shared management could lead to cost savings and enhanced cultural offerings for Ashland. However, concerns were raised by residents like Bill Steele, who highlighted ongoing issues such as a major water leak and speeding on Lexington Avenue, urging the commission to address these pressing community problems.

The decision to proceed with the conference center at the Paramount site was met with a unanimous vote from the commissioners, reflecting a commitment to enhancing Ashland's cultural landscape while being mindful of fiscal responsibility. The project is expected to take approximately two and a half years to complete, marking a significant investment in the city's future. As the commission moves forward, they aim to ensure minimal disruption to local businesses and maintain transparency with the community throughout the development process.