The news about emergency repairs (costing $750,000) being required at Memorial Hall solidifies my opinion that this structure needs to be torn down and replaced.
Memorial Hall is hardly a “historic structure” by any stretch of one’s imagination. The original intent, prompting its construction, is sacred and should be honored within and by any replacement structure.
A new structure could replicate the facade in modern, more durable materials and the interior could be designed for modern day activities with current safety codes in mind.
A museum area, dedicated to those World War I soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice for all of us, would be much more meaningful than the currently scattered memorabilia in Memorial Hall.
To me, any other option is a waste of money and just delays action concerning this structure, which is really falling down and washing away.
– James M. Quinn