A lengthy discussion and more public comment last night resulted in Galesburg aldermen voting 4-3 to table moving forward with any renovation to the former National Guard Armory for 90 days.
Council chambers were nearly full again and mixed opinions were stated by both aldermen and constituents.
City Manager Todd Thompson tells WGIL administration will use the three months as a time to listen.
“You know, at this point, within the 90 days we’ll have to explore some of the Council comments related to what more information they want or what other options they might want to consider,” Thompson says.
Options discussed included pinpointing exact uses for the facility, exploring alternate funding options and exploring different facilities that could provide the same service. Ward 3 Alderman Russell Fleming didn’t see the point waiting for more information.
“My minds not going to change in three months, nine months, however long it takes to make the decision,” Fleming says.
Other’s, like Ward 5 Alderman Peter Schwartzman felt the information was needed.
“I think the young people deserve a voice,” Schwartzman says. “I think the longer this stays on the table, the more opportunity there is for young people to become aware of it and voice their opinion.”
Thompson says the item will likely be back on a council agenda in just over the 90 day period, though no formal date has officially been set.
