Liberty Lake commission approves immediate ticket‑booth repairs, directs planning for full historic rebuild

The Liberty Lake Parks & Arts Commission voted to proceed with immediate repairs and repainting of the Pavilion Park ticket booth and directed staff to develop a plan and budget for a possible full rebuild that would restore more historic proportions.

The decision follows months of review after staff partially disassembled trim on the existing structure and an architect’s review that concluded the current booth differs from the original proportions. The commission approved a motion to complete the “ticket booth beautification, repainting, replace the bad pieces, and move forward with developing a plan to rebuild.” The motion passed by voice vote; the meeting record shows the motion carried.

Why it matters: the booth sits in a high‑use area of Pavilion Park and has deteriorated plywood and insect issues that have created recurring maintenance problems during summer camps and events. Commissioners said a short‑term repair is needed to keep the structure usable for the upcoming season while staff explores longer‑term options that may involve code review and greater expense.

Most important facts: City staff reported rot in lower plywood panels, bee infestations in wall cavities and evidence that earlier construction enlarged the booth to meet electrical‑clearance requirements. Staff said the original budget line for the work was $5,000; repairs to damaged plywood used exterior plywood that cost about $130 per sheet. Commissioners and staff discussed two paths: (1) a modest repair/face‑lift to make the booth weather‑resistant and return it to service this summer, or (2) an expedited reconstruction to restore earlier, more historic proportions — a course that would likely increase costs and require additional review (including Labor and Industries interpretation of clearance/code requirements).

Discussion details: Staff explained that when the booth was originally constructed the electrical inspector required a 36‑inch clearance around the electrical panel; the enlargement changed the booth’s proportions. Architect Gary (consultant) advised that some dimensions might be tightened back toward the historic look but that Labor and Industries (L&I) historically inspects for compliance and typically inspects after construction rather than pre‑approving drawings. Commissioners noted the Schneidmiller family has expressed interest in sponsoring work to restore historic proportions; any donation would be evaluated after staff compiles cost estimates.

Decision vs. direction: The commission’s formal action was to approve immediate repairs (beautification and replace damaged sections) and to direct staff to develop a plan and budget for a potential rebuild. Staff said the short‑term repairs should proceed to address rot and bees; the rebuild option would be pursued in parallel only if funding and regulatory questions can be resolved.

Next steps and timing: Staff will proceed with repairs so the booth can be used this summer and will return with estimates and a rebuild plan, including consultation with inspectors to determine whether L&I review will delay construction or require plan modifications. If the commission seeks the historic rebuild this year the project may require reallocation of funds or a council decision; otherwise the rebuild will be scheduled and budgeted for a future year.

Ending: For now, Pavilion Park will get a functional repair and refreshed paint to protect the structure during the busy season. The commission expects a staff report with cost estimates and a regulatory path before committing to a larger reconstruction.