Susan Garwood, Rice County Historical Society Executive Director, went before the Rice County Board of Commissioners Tuesday requesting they be allowed to expand to the empty lot to the north of the Faribault museum.

The Board was meeting as a Committee of the Whole where votes are not taken.

The county purchased the property last spring and removed the home that was located there.

Faribault empty lot adjacent to RCHS Museum. Photo by Gordy Kosfeld
Faribault empty lot adjacent to RCHS Museum. Photo by Gordy Kosfeld
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Garwood told commissioners the historical society is out of room to grow.

Garwood added changes are not just in machinery.

The historical society would like permission to expand to the property just north.

RCHS Museum and empty lot to north. Photo by Gordy Kosfeld
RCHS Museum and empty lot to north. Photo by Gordy Kosfeld
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Commissioners indicated they had no problems with the request.  Commissioner Jim Purfeerst pointed out it was a "once in a lifetime opportunity."  Commissioners Dave Miller and Jeff Docken also voiced support.

Commissioner Galen Malecha agreed with his colleagues.

In a letter dated December 14, 2022 to Commissioners from the Rice County Historical Society it states, "In 2021, RCHS Board established a building expansion fund, seeded by three long-time volunteers, to collect financial donations to be used for planning, development and construction of a possible new building or building expansion for RCHS use."

"This fund currently is at $55,955.77 and is invested with Integrity Viking Funds.  The fund continues to receive annual donations from these and other interested parties.  Yet, because we don't have the Commissioners' permission to use the property, we have not invested in professional designers or consultants."

The letter concludes, "We have many members, volunteers, and community members who are eager to see a building addition come to life.  We seek your permission to begin planning and developinhg the property as we look to the future of the Rice County Historical Society."

Commissioners may have the item on next week's regular meeting of the County Board.

 

 

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