Henderson council votes to remove designated funds from the Henderson Space and Science Center

The Henderson City Council voted March 20 to remove funds that had been allocated to the Henderson Space and Science Center.

"I support the space and science center," Henderson Mayor Andy Hafen said. "I always have, and I always will. We have needs in the city for the land fund money. Quite frankly, this center is not going to be built in the near future. We have capital needs in this community that could be put to work immediately."

The city had originally set aside $21 million from a public land fund to assist the space and science center in its efforts to build a facility. In addition, the center would be required to raise about $40 million from private investors.

During the meeting , the council voted 5-0 to remove the designated funds from the Henderson Space and Science Center and to begin separating the group from city governance. The meeting was expected to be the first step of the process .

"We can't just wave a magic wand and separate the space and science board, which is part of the city right now under (Henderson Municipal Code) ordinance," said Josh Reid, the city attorney. "A number of things need to happen to make the separation process."

Hafen said this wouldn't take effect immediately and proposed giving the board time to adjust and raise its operating costs .

The council still plans to support the center in its endeavour .

"I don't think there is anybody who doesn't support (the space and science center)," Councilwoman Debra March said. "I think everyone wants to see programs like this serving the community."

March said it makes sense for a separation to occur so the center can go out and secure private donations independent of the city.

"We have helped them with tools to do that by giving them plans and documents -- things they can take out for purposes of fundraising," March added. "I think (our relationship) needs to morph into a new relationship."

March said the city was like a big brother to the space and science center.

"As long as we serve as its big brother, helping along, (the space and science center) is not going to find its legs," March said.

Both Councilman John Marz and Councilwoman Gerri Schroder wanted to open discussion to make sure the city was still somewhat connected with the center.

"As a big brother, sometimes we need to give a helping hand," Marz said.

Hafen wants to discuss setting up some type of matching funds incentive that could match dollar-for-dollar what the space and science center raises.

In the meantime, the city plans to look at other projects that need to be carried out. The city manager's office highlighted several alternative projects , including remodeling or updating the Henderson Convention Center -- a project that could cost between $13 million and $20 million.

Other projects that could be used with the money include improvements to the fire department training center or installing photovoltaic cells at the Heritage Park Senior Facility, 300 S. Racetrack Road.

Some of the projects have matching grants that require action by 2012.

Hafen said using the money for other projects could kill two birds with one stone.

"We could get our capital needs on buildings going, put people to work, and also still have funds to match what the space and science center board is able to raise," Hafen said.

Larry Carroll, vice president of the Henderson Space and Science Center board of directors, and several board members attended the meeting. Carroll said the board wants to continue to work with the city in some capacity.

"We wouldn't be where we are today without the city's moral and financial support," Carroll said. "We realize things do change. This is a project we need to do together."

Contact Henderson/Anthem View reporter Michael Lyle at mlyle@viewnews.com or 387-5201.