Commission hears concerns about storage, climate control and site history as exhibits expand

Commission members described ceiling tunnels, stacked slate and basement storage that may affect preservation of artifacts and public art. One participant said some tunnels "went down the river" and raised the risk that artifacts stored in substandard conditions could be damaged; members suggested a construction-focused exhibit might highlight some of that material.

Speakers also discussed building systems and inspections. A speaker referenced a large figure for upgrades, stating the project had "18,000,000 mostly behind the scenes" and noted the need to address upstairs work and climate control for certain storage areas. Members asked whether the city would assume responsibility for maintenance tasks (plumbing, electrical, fire-suppression inspections) and flagged that coordination with city departments would be required before conservation work could proceed.

Commissioners urged clearer documentation of where items are stored and which pieces are city-owned public art. They recommended scoping a preservation-grade inventory and ensuring any storage location meets climate-control standards before moving collections. The commission agreed these facilities and storage issues require follow-up and to add related items to the next agenda.