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Public views Galesburg Armory; Council to take next steps in June

The Galesburg community has had the opportunity to give input on the future of the National Guard Armory building. But last night they got to lay eyes on it.

Event center, recreation center, community center, all of or none of the above?

City administration hoped to have a clearer idea of where the public stands on what the Galesburg armory should be used as after last night’s open house.

City officials and architects answered questions and displayed renderings of what the space could look like.

City Manager Todd Thompson says not all community voices necessarily support the renovation.

He tells WGIL some have raised the criticism that the city would be wiser to focus on a growing budget deficit.

“We’ve put together a preliminary operating budget for this facility and believe it will break even or better,” Thompson says.

He says the $10 million bond issue City Council approved in January was largely for infrastructure work but a portion was set aside for building work.

Thompson says he views projects like the armory renovation as an investment towards attracting people to Galesburg by strengthening the city’s recreational opportunities and quality of life.

He anticipates that council will discuss the next steps at a June work session.

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