READ MORE: New Springfield Salvation Army officers look to fill gaps in service
The levy, if approved, would cost $10.50 per year for the owner of a $100,000 home and generate about $700,000 a year. While more than 85 percent of the money generated would cover maintenance costs, the remainder would cover costs to refurbish exhibits and allow more items to be displayed.
The Heritage Center opened as a historical museum in 2001. It originally served as City Hall and then was a marketplace for several years after that.
“This building, we feel, is iconic for the community and the total maintenance of it is just beyond the capability of the historical society at this point,” Sherrock said. “We want to stay here and continue so we’re asking for help to get these items done.”
MORE: Local congressman argues for more competition in health care
The building is a local landmark, listed on the National Register of Historic sites. But it needs repairs to several key components, Sherrock said, including its towers, elevators, and heating and air conditioning systems.
The site regularly hosts educational events, and includes permanent and rotating exhibits that trace the region’s history from its archaeology to displays about local veterans who have served the country.
The Clark County Historical Society sought a levy in 2015, which narrowly failed, Sherrock said. The organization has never operated on a levy, he said, and has instead relied on an endowment and donations to move forward.
The organization’s board of directors would have to consider what steps to take if the levy goes down, Sherrock said, but it’s not clear the historical society could continue in its current form without some assistance.
DETAILS: New business to open Friday at Upper Valley Mall
“I have a board of directors I report to and if this doesn’t pass we’re going to get together and say we’ve tried,” Sherrock said. “If we can’t get support for this building what are our options? The board will make those decisions.”
Unmatched coverage
The Springfield News-Sun is the best local news source for what's on the Nov. 7 ballot. For our online Voter's Guide, go to Vote.SpringfieldNewsSun.com to find everything you need to know to vote.
Clark County:
What: Clark County Historical Society
Levy: 5-year, o.3-mill additional levy
What it would raise: $3.5 million total over five years
Cost to the owner of a $100,000 home: $10.50 per year
What it would be used for: Repair and maintenance of its Heritage Center of Clark County
About the Author