Dear editor:

Few buildings in our town hold as many memories as the Cody Auditorium. It has been a part of my life since it was built — physical education, basketball games, high school graduation ceremony, and many other community functions, including Chamber Cody Club luncheons. Cody voters approved building it in 1941, and for 85 years it has been the place where this community gathers.

Today it is still in constant use. It hosts craft fairs, weddings, conventions, basketball games, and the fundraisers that our nonprofits depend on. Many local organizations simply have no other affordable venue large enough for their events.

But the building is showing its age. Its heating, electrical and structural systems are at or past the end of their useful life. There is asbestos that needs to be removed. Most importantly to me, the restrooms do not meet ADA standards. A public building that not every member of the public can use comfortably falls short of what this community stands for.

On Nov. 3, voters will decide on a 1% Specific Purpose Tax. It would provide about $9.8 million to restore the auditorium, including enlarged, accessible restrooms and modern building systems. The same tax also funds a new senior center in Powell and projects in Meeteetse. By law, the money can only go to these projects, and the tax ends automatically once they are paid for. Because it is a sales tax, the many visitors who shop and dine here will help pay for it too.

If this measure fails, the auditorium will not stay as it is. It will keep deteriorating, and the eventual repairs will only cost more.

The people of Cody built this hall together in 1941. Now it’s our turn to take care of it. I urge my neighbors to vote yes on Nov. 3.

Bob Richard

Cody