JOHNSTOWN - The city has joined Fulton County and the Fulton County Regional Chamber of Commerce & Industry in opposing the state's proposed closing of Johnson Hall.
The council passed a resolution - with a unanimous second -at its business meeting Monday at City Hall to support keeping open the city's top tourist attraction.
"Johnson Hall has local, state and national historical importance," 4th Ward Councilwoman Kay Cole read from the resolution. "This site is a significant tourist spot for the city of Johnstown and a valued treasure of our community. Johnson Hall is vital to our local tourism."
The resolution said about 55,000 people visit Johnson Hall each year.
"Tourists that visit Johnson Hall spend valuable dollars at local restaurants, hotels, shops, etc., and the ripple effect of closing this site would not only be felt in the city of Johnstown, but surrounding communities as well," the resolution stated.
Gov. David Paterson and state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Commissioner Carol Ash on Feb. 19 jointly announced a comprehensive list of state historic sites and parks recommended to be closed as state budget cuts. The office's plan includes closure of 41 parks and 14 historic sites. It also includes service reductions at 23 parks and one historic site.
The list of area closures includes not only Johnson Hall State Historic Site, expected to save the state $46,500, but Schoharie Crossing in Montgomery County, expected to save $110,000. Overall, proposed closings would save the state $6 million.
"I also recommend this be forwarded out to the governor, Parks and Recreation and our local officials," 2nd Ward Councilman Chris Foss said.
Mayor Sarah Slingerland said behind the scenes, the city has already begun the process of protesting the possible Johnson Hall closure.
"We can hope this doesn't come to fruition," Slingerland said.
Michael Anich covers Johnstown and Fulton County news. He can be reached at johnstown@leaderherald.com.