Northwest Montana History Museum Public Comment from Alex BerryTo: City of Kalispell Council:
Re: Funding Request
As a Board Member of the Northwest Montana History Museum, a nonprofit lessee of a city-owned building (the Central School at 124 Second Ave. E.), I would like you to consider the forthcoming
funding from the State-Local Infrastructure Partnership Act of 2023 for repair of the building’s failing HVAC system. For the building to function properly, your help in maintaining
this important city asset is needed, and receipt of this funding is the opportune time to do so.
The museum annually attracts thousands of visitors, hosts events, and engages hundreds of kids while operating an architecturally significant facility dedicated to education.
As stewards of this landmark, we find our biggest expense apart from payroll is maintenance and repair of the facility. Last year we paid $8,474 in heating and cooling maintenance, and
$12,887 in energy-related utilities, mainly related to HVAC. A fully functioning HVAC system will help minimize the HVAC expense of operating the building and reduce the likelihood
of catastrophes such as the broken pipes and flooding of December 2022.
The museum uses the building to hold artifacts and other items for the public good. The lack of climate control and the failing HVAC system put the collection at risk.
We have received an estimate of $180,769 from Electro Controls to fully repair the heat system. The museum is separately undertaking $4,125 in boiler repairs this month. Please appropriate
needed funds to maintain the Central School building for years to come.
On behalf of the board, volunteers, and staff who successfully preserve and present the history of our valley, thank you for your consideration.
Thank you,
Alex Berry, Board Vice President
919 2nd Avenue East
Kalispell, MT 59901
406-300-1753