Condon Arts Council seeks $1 million for Liberty Theater and Arts Building restoration

The Condon Arts Council asked the Gilliam County Court on May 7 for $1,000,000 to restore the Liberty Theater and a neighboring historic building the council calls the Arts Building.

Margaret Tocaghi, president of the Condon Arts Council, said the nonprofit bought the theater in 2022 and a second building in 2023 and has expanded programming for youth and seniors across Gilliam and neighboring Wheeler counties. The council described a phased “lasagna” funding strategy that layers federal, state, county, city, foundation and private donations.

Board members described planned physical changes, including creating a pass-through between the Liberty Theater and the Arts Building to improve flow for performances and classes. The council said it had secured or applied for multiple grants (Oregon Main Street, Oregon Arts Commission, Ford Family Foundation and others) and that the total project estimate is roughly $2.25–2.5 million; the council said it would not return to the county for additional capital funds before 2029.

The court, through its later action on capital investment grants, approved the Condon Arts Council request for $1,000,000 with the stipulation that the council bring its property taxes current before funds are disbursed and that the council not seek additional county capital funding before 2029. The council said it also has a $400,000 Oregon Main Street application pending and still owes roughly $70,000 on the Mortuary (Arts Building) purchase note, which it asked the court to help retire as part of the package.

Speakers emphasized the cultural and educational benefits of restoring the theater and buildings, citing after‑school programs, children's theater and community cultural events. The court indicated it would consider the request as part of the capital investment fund round and later approved the grant with the conditions described.