Economy may trump science in building of Henderson museum

Plans made in good times to build an innovative, state-of-the-art space and science center in Henderson could be derailed by the economic reality of life in hard times.

In 2009, the Henderson City Council agreed to set aside $21 million for the Henderson Space & Science Center from funds received through public land sales.

Three years later, amid the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression, the $63 million project is imperiled. Before any funds are released, backers will have to meet with city officials to discuss the center's future -- or at least the city's role as its government benefactor. Two items regarding funding were withdrawn from the agenda of Tuesday's City Council meeting to give both sides an opportunity to revisit the issue.

Jack Clark, the center's director and a former councilman, remains optimistic it will be built and be successful.

"We are continuing to work with the city," Clark said. "We understand the constraints they are under financially, and we understand the city is not immune to this economy."

According to City Manager Mark Calhoun, the economy has forced the city to reconsider its gift, saying in a letter to the City Council more important projects are in need of capital funding.

Calhoun listed several projects he believes the city should prioritize above the space and science center. He recommended that the city hold "all funds" earmarked for the center and that the City Council redirect other land fund money for special capital purchases.

Many of those projects involve grants that require the city to match, and some expire next year, he said.

The most expensive project by far is construction of an addition to the city's aging convention center with a remodel. Calhoun suggested the building could be razed and rebuilt, or "perhaps even constructed to provide space for a science/space/technology center within its confines." The projected cost is $13 million to $20 million, he said.

In total, Calhoun's list of most critical projects represent between $40.3 million and $47.3 million in costs to the city.

But money is scarce. The land fund was created to hold revenue generated when public lands within the city's boundaries were sold to developers. The fund has dwindled in recent years as construction has ceased. There is $33.5 million in the fund, Calhoun said.

"I have not recommended the (Henderson Space & Science Center), as I believe it is more critical to provide these other needs at this time," he said.

That's a sentiment at least one member of the City Council shares.

Councilwoman Debra March said Tuesday that before the city hands over more than $17 million -- or even $2.9 million the center has requested to pay for architectural services and to hire a director of design and construction -- the center's board of directors must show it can find the rest of the $63 million through private donations and government grants.

"I think today they have everything they need to initiate a fundraising effort," March said. "They need to demonstrate to the city and Henderson residents that they can go forward."

March also wants the center to commission a second feasibility study.

"The study that was done in 2006 was done before the economy went down," she said. "We need a new study to see if the center would work and that it's still supported by the public."

Contact reporter Doug McMurdo at dmcmurdo@reviewjournal.com or 702-224-5512.