The Fairbanks North Star Borough Assembly rejected an appropriation to continue operating the Joy Community Center, a former school that has been used as a borough recreation and community facility. Sponsors Assemblymember David Guttenberg and Assemblymember Kristen Kelly proposed a short-term funding package designed to keep the center open while the administration develops a longer-term plan; the assembly voted the measure down after extensive public testimony.

Guttenberg said the center hosts adaptive recreation, senior programs, youth activities and community rentals and that the borough already pays heat and utilities for the building. He asked the assembly to cover the incremental operational cost for six months so staff could pursue longer-term tenants and a plan for continued use. The substitute motion would have appropriated $55,240 from general fund balance for parks and public works to keep the building open for a year.

Advocates filled the public-comment list and the chamber, telling the assembly the building provides unique, year‑round indoor space that is difficult to replace. Robin Capp, president of the Interior Girls Softball Association, said the center provided winter practice space after school custodial shortages reduced gym rentals at district schools. Carrie Nash, who represents adaptive recreation families, said: "Being in one place makes it easy and familiar for people with disabilities. It is much more reasonable for the staff not to have to haul items hither and thither in multiple locations." Diane Darnall, who attends table‑tennis and senior programs at Joy, told the assembly: "It has literally improved the quality of my life."

Opponents said the borough is facing tight fiscal choices. Assemblymembers who opposed the appropriation cited a broader need to reduce the borough’s footprint and limit draws on general fund reserves. Several members said the borough must weigh whether to continue operating or to find a buyer or long‑term lessee — and they said discussions should continue but not at an immediate cost to taxpayers.

Mayor Bryce Hopkins said the administration supports more time to develop a plan and noted the cost to keep the building in service is limited compared with full maintenance or demolition. The mayor said the administration had been in talks with potential user groups and that short-term funding would allow time to finalize leases or community partnerships.

The motion to appropriate temporary operating money failed on the floor. Without the funding the borough signaled the building will be removed from active use; several speakers urged the assembly to reconsider or to provide a clear, public plan. The record shows the debate generated sustained public interest and that many user groups would seek alternate space if the building is closed.

What happens next: With the appropriation defeated, the administration may continue outreach to prospective lessees or buyers and return with a plan. Users and advocates said they will pursue options and press the assembly for a plan that preserves program continuity or finds equivalent space.