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Commission hears residents urge action as WTAMU president and lawmaker outline high costs to reopen Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum
Summary
An extended public discussion and multiple public comments focused on the closure of the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum; WTAMU President Dr. Walter Wendler said the State Fire Marshal has deemed the building unsafe and Representative John Smithee estimated $20–$40 million may be needed to reopen the museum.
The City Commission dedicated substantial time on Jan. 6 to the future of the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum after WTAMU President Dr. Walter Wendler told the Commission the State Fire Marshal deemed the building unsafe and required it remain closed until violations are corrected.
Dr. Wendler told the Commission it could cost "up to $100,000 per month" to keep operations going during mitigation and that his goal was to keep the museum in Canyon if capital and long-term operating funding could be identified. Representative John Smithee advised that a clearly defined funding plan would be needed by summer to make a legislative funding request and estimated reopening could require "$20-$40 million." The public comment period produced multiple speakers urging preservation, raising concerns about transparency and stewardship, and asking partners to explore funding and preservation options. Mayor Hinders said the city would look into ways to participate and noted the Historical Society planned a public forum in February.
