The future of the former Clintonville armory is in doubt as the Common Council looks for $176,000 in savings to replenish the city’s undesignated fund balance.
To balance the 2015 budget, the council in November tapped the undesignated fund balance, with the stipulation that the money be replaced by March 31.
Closing the armory is one of the options being considered to help come up with the money. The city is also considering closing its outdoor swimming pool.
The armory, at 55 E. 12th St., houses the city Park and Recreation Center, a food pantry, evidence for the Police Department and items stored there by the Clintonville Historical Society. It also is available for public use.
The park and recreation department uses space in the basement to repair picnic tables and other items.
The building also houses the office of Justin McCuly, city park and recreation director.
Council members have indicated it is expensive to heat the building, which was dedicated in 1923, that it is not handicap accessible and needs some repairs.
No firm alternative location has been discussed for occupants of the building.
David Schmidt, speaking on behalf of the food pantry, told the Common Council at its last meeting that he thought improvements could be made to the building without using city funds. He said he knew of a person who would donate funds if someone would match them.
The council is also looking at closing the outdoor pool. McCuly said it could operate only one more year without some major repairs.
Plans are being made to have a referendum on the April 7 ballot asking residents if they would like to fund repairs for the pool, build a new pool or close it.
The council had hoped to save money by changing to the state’s health insurance plan for the employees. Interim City Administrator Chuck Kell, however, recently reported that would not happen.
Kell has said that the $35,000 ambulance subsidy might not be needed, and the money could be used to help restore the fund balance.
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