10/19/1993 - Laserfiche WebLink

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OCT 191,991 Poor .91) r , - %Z 11 7 was the city of Norfolk, Virginia. But some of their Board members were more interested in locating in Florida. It was also apparent that they were looking for a community that would get involved both financially and other wise, to support the project. To what extent financially I could not determine. I did relate to him that the old courthouse would be available about the middle of 1994 and a determination as to the disposition of the facility had not been made. I also advised him the Board was looking for something that building could be used for since it did not fit into any of our future plans for use. Mr. Schwartz was advised to provide the County with an official request and provide other information for the Board's consideration. Schwartz toured the old courthouse building with Lynn Williams, Superintendent of Building and Grounds. According to Lynn, Schwartz felt the building would meet the Association's needs. Attached is a letter from Lou Schwartz, requesting some type proposal from the County indicating exactly what would be offered to them if they chose to use the old courthouse as a location for their proposed museum. Also the Association has provided a copy of preliminary plans for this museum. Since this request is so involved and requires coordination between more than just County personnel, staff has brought this item to the Board to ascertain whether or not there is interest in pursuing and developing a proposal for response to the American Broadcasters Association. Administrator Chandler clarified that the property being discussed is the main Courthouse building, not the annex. Commissioner Eggert recalled that during earlier discussions about the Old Courthouse it was determined that only the central portion was historical. The wing portions are separating from the center, and there are serious problems in controlling the dampness. She thought the Sportscasters Association might lose interest when they find out how much renovation is needed and the costs involved. She recalled discussions in the past about constructing a new county administration building on that property in the distant future. Commissioner Adams felt that it was an interesting proposal and might attract some tourists; however, financial contributions should be made by private groups. Commissioner Macht predicted that the American Sportscasters Association would want financial assistance from the County. He did not agree that a sportscasters museum would attract tourists. He pointed out that the building has no historical significance, the property technically belongs to the taxpayers, and this should be viewed from a business standpoint. He preferred that the building be torn down and the property put to some other use. W M M