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Monett to study reopening City Hall auditorium as 'Freedom Hall' for downtown events
Summary
Council approved a five‑member feasibility group to evaluate reopening the upstairs City Hall auditorium for periodic concerts and events (proposed name: Freedom Hall), noting historic features, elevator and HVAC needs, and potential seating capacity around 547 after prior modifications.
Monett councilmembers voted to form a five‑member feasibility group to study whether the upstairs City Hall auditorium can be reopened for periodic concerts and other events under the working name "Freedom Hall."
Kelly told the council the auditorium seats about 547 now after past removals to accommodate accessibility; Mark, speaking from council history knowledge, said the hall originally held about 660 seats and noted the lighting and sound system was purchased in 2006 from a Springfield vendor. Council members said the study should inventory historic fixtures, check the elevator and HVAC, and identify the cost of reconditioning or replacing worn seats and curtains.
Council emphasized preserving historic character while identifying modern upgrades needed for accessibility and event production. Park Superintendent Larry Howard and other staff will participate in the feasibility group; commissioners said the study should return with budget estimates and a recommended scope before any decisions about funding.
Next steps: a feasibility group will assess structural, accessibility and technical upgrades, prepare cost estimates, and report back to the council for further direction.
