Fair City council updates plan to convert Doug Moore building into community space

Fair City council members gave an update on plans to convert the former Doug Moore building into a community center, saying demolition and interior gutting are complete and some tentative budget money is set aside to begin repairs.

Council members said the building — which the city purchased last year — is being cleared to become a rentable community space with a concrete floor, a small kitchen, and possible designated workspace areas that could qualify for grant funding for public internet and printing access. The council noted the city adopted a tentative budget at its last meeting and that the budget includes an allocation for the project, but speakers said it is not yet clear how far that money will go.

In the meeting the council reported that staff member Casey removed damaged ceiling tiles and interior partitions during winter work and that utility systems appear intact: heating operated over the winter and plumbing currently works. Council members said electric service has been turned off during demolition work for safety. The bathrooms are intact and could be made ADA compliant with relatively modest work, the meeting record shows.

The presenters described early design goals as a simple, flexible space modeled on other small community event centers in the region: a concrete-floor hall people can rent that would reduce the need to continue renting the council chambers for public events. They also said the city is exploring grant programs tied to providing public workspace and internet access.

No formal council action was taken on the renovation during the informational meeting. Council members encouraged residents to review the tentative budget, which the council adopted previously, and said staff would provide copies on request.

The report said officials hope the building will be available for community events when funding and construction schedules allow, but a firm completion date was not given.