07-30-2002Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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p20020406 4 DISCUSSION OF OPERATING TRAIN PROPOSAL FROM STUHR MUSEUM - Pam Price was present to review the proposal for the operating train and the funding strategy. She thanked the County Board and stated she appreciated the support from Brad Fegley and County Attorney Jerry Janulewicz. In August 2002, the executive board voted to pursue an operating train for Stuhr Museum and at that time they formed the Train Funding Resource Advisory Committee T Frac. In September they reviewed information on a lease purchasing and the possibility of forming an interlocal agreement with local entities to partner funding for an operating train. The rail tracks, trusses, cars and building multiple structures for storage were discussed and all of the structures would have to meet ADA requirements. They would need to have financing to hire people for operating and up-keep of the train and structures and they would also need an endowment fund for this project. Board members attended meetings and Jerry Janulewicz attended several meetings and pointed out the legal issues. They also met with the audit committee and discussed the various issues. They discussed using a bond issue and putting it to a vote of the people and their attorney Richard Peterson found the option of creating a recreational facility that the museum could use to proceed with the necessary bond issue. Ms. Price introduced Leann Steel and she reviewed the "All Aboard Plan" this plan would require community support for the train. The museum would also have to pursue a capital campaign. They provided pictures of reproduction engines that the museum may consider. Bond attorney Richard Peterson provided copies of information concerning the proposed bond issue and the documentation that would be necessary for the board members to approve in order to proceed. The county board would need to develop the declaration of intent and approve it. If the proposal goes on the ballot for the general election the ballot language would need to be to the election commissioner by August 28,2002. So it is critical to move forward quickly. Discussion was held on the bonds and how long they would be issued for. The attorney suggested five to twenty years for the bonds, but this has not been decided yet. The board members reviewed the operating expenses and the proposed labor costs that would be needed for the operation of the train. The train would be operational from May to October and it would also be used for the Christmas walks in December. Hartman questioned who would serve as the train supervisor. Logan questioned the cost of the tickets. They stated that they are hoping to build attendance and the promotional items will also provide some revenue. The board asked if volunteers would be used and they already use a large number of volunteers but the three top positions would require definite skills so the museum will need some paid positions. Hartman stated that the operating costs will be a small part because there will be more cost involved. He expressed concern on the shape of the county at this time. Arnold stated that in the campaign for the bond issue, they are asking for one-half mill for the maintenance. He stated that the vote of the people would be a representation of the public opinion. It needs to be out in the open. The museum is proposing an interlocal agreement but this would also have to involve the City of Grand Island 2