It’s been a year since the gazebo at Riverfront Park was condemned. McMinnville officials will be meeting Tuesday night to discuss its fate.
The city Parks and Recreation Committee with members Ben Newman, chair, Steve Harvey and Jimmy Bonner will meet at 5:45 p.m.
 “I wished I could give you a quote, but I haven’t made up my mind,” said Newman, when asked what he would like to see happen with the structure.
The decision to condemn was made by the city’s insurance company due to the unsafe condition of the structure. At that time, city administrator Bill Brock directed McMinnville Parks and Recreation director Scott McCord to remove the stairs to prevent access.
Said Brock at the time, “There are only two options: rebuild it or tear it down.”
Riverfront Park was established in 1986 in a coordinated effort between the city and community members. The gazebo was built over masonry work that remained from an old water holding tank.
Over the years, officials have discussed what to do about the deteriorating gazebo without making a decision. In 2006, $5,000 was placed in the budget for replacing the roof. However, that money was removed due to budget constraints.
The fate of the gazebo might be a concern for the numerous individuals who see it as a landmark and for the individuals who exchanged vows in it since it was placed in 1986. Alderman Harvey was among those.
Committee members are also meeting to discuss Park Theater multi-event box office fees.