The Rison City Council unanimously approved a request from Pioneer Village, Inc. to transform Building 1 into "Heritage Hall," a climate-controlled public and private event venue. While Pioneer Village manages the property at Yaney and Mockingbird Streets, the city owns the facility.
The council authorized the project and tasked its budget committee with exploring financial support. Pioneer Village, which has already raised $12,000 toward a $50,000 goal, selected Building 1 following recent roof repairs. Planned renovations include insulation, rustic interior walls, HVAC units, and a performance stage pledged by the Cleveland County Community Theater. The climate-controlled space aims to attract wedding receptions following ceremonies at Mt. Olivet Church.
In other business, Utilities Director Gene Norton reported reduced energy consumption at the new wastewater plant, with Mayor Charles Roberts noting a 50% cost drop last month. Norton also announced upcoming local grease trap inspections to stay ahead of ADEQ compliance.