Officials debate future of The Hole

By JAMES CLARK / Editor for the Southern Standard

Talks of turning The Hole into an upscale amphitheater, complete with water features and artwork, hit a snag Tuesday night.

McMinnville officials decided they might not want to invest too much money into the empty lot because there’s a chance a business might want to buy the property and bring jobs downtown.

“I’d like to see that space left open for economic development,” said Alderman Michael Chrisawn. “I don’t want to lose that option from my perspective. I’d rather consider something that’s simple, not so complex that we can’t tear it down.”

Chrisawn’s comments came as Alderman Jimmy Haley was discussing two options which would make significant improvements to The Hole. Both options included prominent stages, and Haley had a book featuring dozens of different water features where children could play.

“If you look at places like the Bicentennial Mall, there can be as many as 200 kids playing in the water,” said Haley referring to the Nashville attraction. “And 200 kids brings 200 parents, and that brings people downtown.”

While city officials liked Haley’s vision, they also liked the idea of bringing another primary business downtown.

“People down there working every day will be more beneficial to our community,” said Mayor Royce Davenport.

The city has received some mild interest in the property, but that was several years ago. The hopes are that when downtown renovation work is complete it will stimulate more interest.

Officials are leaning toward constructing a low-cost entertainment venue at The Hole with a stage perhaps covered by a canopy. However, Haley indicated he remains in favor of a more upscale and permanent recreational area with grass.

It was also mentioned that downtown is in need of public restrooms and that appeared a popular idea. But officials said restrooms were a project that “should be done right” and not constructed too close to The Hole because that too might impede future projects. It was mentioned that permanent restrooms might be located beside or behind the Chamber of Commerce building.

As for the gazebo which graced Court Square for years, its days downtown appear to be numbered. Plans are to move the gazebo to Pepper Branch Park.