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Council approves Chapman Barn restoration, majority of cost shifted to tourism fund
Summary
Council voted Nov. 19 to fund restoration of Chapman Barn, approving $27,813 to complete the project; council approved using tourism fund balance to cover the full amount after debate about whether tourism dollars meet the 'heads and beds' standard.
The City of Oconomowoc on Nov. 19 approved funding to restore Chapman Barn, a deteriorating historic structure at Chapman Park, after hearing fundraising updates from Friends of Chapman Park and staff.
Friends and staff reported about $24,502 on hand plus a $25,000 donation from Bank 59 and a $10,000 contribution proposed from tourism, leaving a shortfall of $17,813 to award the restoration contract. After discussion, council voted to fund the full $27,813 from the tourism fund balance so the contract could be awarded immediately; proponents cited wedding parties, trailhead potential and other visitor uses as tourism‑supporting justification, while others argued for drawing on the general fund because tourism funding is traditionally tied to lodging revenue ("heads and beds").
Supporters noted frequent park use, wedding photography, a potential trailhead and high community value. Opponents urged caution about draining tourism reserves and recommended clearer policy guidance on what counts as tourism‑eligible expenditures. The mayor and staff said the project will still include donor funds raised by the Friends group and that the tourism contribution complements — rather than replaces — private fundraising.
Outcome: Council adopted the resolution to transfer $27,813 from the tourism fund to complete the project and award the contract. Staff will proceed with the restoration work and continue to solicit donations and volunteer support for park programming and future improvements.
What’s next: Contract awarded; Friends of Chapman Park and staff will proceed with construction planning and outreach; finance staff will record the transfer from the tourism fund.
