Council debates converting historic clubhouse to welcome center and museum; motion to pursue fails

City staff proposed opening the historic Cottonwood Community Clubhouse as a staffed welcome center and local history museum to increase public access and provide rotating exhibits. Acting City Manager Tom Whitmer noted the building averages about 60 events per year and generates roughly $25,000 in rental revenue but may cost more to maintain; staff suggested Chamber of Commerce staffing for the welcome center and movable exhibits to avoid permanent alterations.

"Over the last two years, we've averaged a little over 60 events per year," Whitmer said, arguing the building is underused and could better serve visitors and residents if regularly staffed.

Council members and members of the public raised concerns about displacing community events and losing a free space for local groups. Felicia Coats, a former member of the Cottonwood Historic Preservation Commission, said, "The facility is the Cottonwood Community Clubhouse, and I think it should principally serve us, the community residents," and asked that the council seek broader public input.

Several council members proposed workshops or a work session to collect more community feedback before repurposing the building. Councilwoman DuVernay moved to recommend staff pursue a change of use to a welcome center and local history museum; the motion failed on roll call (several council members voted to table or opposed immediate direction). Staff said they would return with a proposal for a work session and additional community outreach.

Council members emphasized finding an approach that preserves community access while exploring visitor information and historical programming.