Robersonville approves temporary Historic Exhibit Hall at 112 S. Main Street

Presenters Peggy Cochran and Betsy Kennedy asked the Robersonville Town Council on Nov. 12 to allow use of the town-owned building at 112 S. Main Street as a temporary Historic Exhibit Hall to showcase local people, places and events.

Cochran said the exhibit would “highlight the history of Robersonville, to help commemorate America 250... and to recognize and celebrate the cultural history of the Robersonville people, places and events which have shaped who and what we are as a town and community.” She requested permission to use the building, provision of town utilities for six months contingent on outside funding, permission to seek repair funding, and the naming of a steering committee that would include Mayor Tina Brown, Kennedy and Cochran along with other community representatives.

Manager Chris Roberson reported preliminary inspections, roof-repair estimates and early contacts with Martin County Travel & Tourism, the sheriff’s office and a local contractor. After the presentation Councilman David Jenkins moved to approve use of the building and related permissions; Councilwoman Debra Armstrong seconded and the motion carried unanimously. The council instructed staff to assist with inspections and funding outreach and to report back on steering committee membership and repair cost estimates.

The approval is conditioned on securing outside funding for repairs and utilities beyond the six-month period. Council members recorded no objections during the meeting and set follow-up tasks for the town manager and staff.