Rock Springs council delays Civic Center closure after residents propose fixes and fundraising

The Rock Springs City Council on May 20 approved an amendment to Resolution 2025‑54 changing the proposed closure of the Rock Springs Civic Center from July 1, 2025, to July 1, 2027, after several hours of public comment and presentations from a citizen task force offering alternative plans.

The amendment, moved by Councilman Zadeh and seconded by Councilman Petrie, passed by roll call vote. The amendment sets a two‑year window for the community and council to develop a detailed engineering assessment, a multi‑year repair plan and pursue public‑private funding alternatives before any closure or repurposing occurs.

Why it matters: speakers at the meeting said the Civic Center provides year‑round recreation, social services and cultural events and that incremental maintenance could keep the building open while longer‑term decisions are made. Task‑force members proposed an initial set of short‑term repairs to address mold, fire‑safety systems and the roof while commissioning a structural engineering study to determine exact long‑term costs.

Several public speakers urged the council to keep the facility open and offered voluntary help and fundraising.…