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Booth County canning facility unusable this season after boiler failure; board discusses repair, relocation and grants
Summary
A longtime community canning facility was sidelined when its boiler failed; residents urged preservation and district staff said replacement would cost about $60,000 with a 6–8 week lead time, and the board said it is exploring grants and possible relocation off a school campus.
The Booth County School Board on Oct. 9 heard appeals from residents and an update from staff after a boiler failure left the county canning facility (the “canery”) unable to cook this season.
Diane Stevens, who said she has used the canery for more than 60 years, urged the board not to allow the facility to close and described its value for community food preservation and intergenerational teaching. "I just like to say real quick that I think the Canary is a very important asset to our community," Stevens told the board during public comment.
A district staff member responded that the boiler is beyond repair and that replacement is the likely option. "No one's talking about closing the caner. We have a boiler that's out that's beyond repair. It's a $60,000 piece of equipment that's 6 to 8 weeks, bare minimum, to get it replaced," the staff member said, adding that pandemic-era supply-chain delays have lengthened lead times.
Officials said the facility retains cold storage and can continue dry-metal canning operations for items that do not require on-site cooking, but that the canery cannot be used for the full fall processing season while the boiler is out. Staff said they are considering several options: apply for grants that fund security and facility upgrades, explore relocating the canery off a school campus to reduce safety concerns when large numbers of community members gather, or seek repairs if they become viable and safe.
Board members and speakers noted other nearby county canning facilities (Carol County and Blaine County were mentioned) that community members use in the interim. Board members emphasized prioritizing student safety and said the district is seeking funding options and logistical solutions for next year.
Next steps: staff will pursue replacement and funding options and report back; the board did not set a formal timeline for a final decision on whether the canery will be repaired in place or relocated.
Ending: The board heard the public's concerns and pledged to explore grant funding and alternative locations; community users were advised to seek alternate facilities for the current season.
