A Packed Room, A Divided Decision, and an Unexpected Ending

It’s been a whirlwind week. Last Tuesday, the community showed up in force to voice concerns about the acquisition and proposed 13-year lease of the Fair building. The room was packed, with Doug Stanhope even offering a bit of comic relief during the call to the public.

Despite the overwhelming turnout and repeated calls for the council to press pause, the notice of intent on the ordinance to move forward with the acquisition was approved. Only Karen Schumaker and Lori Reynolds, both representing Ward 1, voted in opposition. The decision was disappointing, and many in the community were left confused about key details—especially sources of funding, particularly for building maintenance.

Then, on Friday, the council received a letter from the board of the Restoration Museum stating they would no longer move forward with gifting the Fair building to the City of Bisbee. While this outcome ultimately aligns with what many in the community had hoped for, it’s hard not to reflect on the significant time and energy (not to mention billable hours of the city attorney) wasted over the past six months. Imagine where we could be as a community if everyone had been working in alignment toward the same goals. Equally concerning is the impact this process has had on public trust and the reputation of the organizations involved.

As we look ahead, there are some glimmers of daylight. Recently appointed board member Sarah Prochnau initiated a conversation with the Restoration Museum’s board about what help and support they want or need. The idea of a fundraising event that Bisbee Forward plans jointly with the Restoration Museum is already in the spitballing phase. Anyone who has ideas to contribute or who would like to be involved, please let Sarah or anyone else on the BF board know. Regardless of any eventual move of the visitors center, we as a community—including Bisbee Forward—are fans and supporters of the Restoration Museum. It’s time to show that in our actions.