GREENSBORO, MD -- Town leaders are discussing possibly relocating the Greensboro Historical Society's museum from their current location off Sunset Avenue.
Greensboro Historical Society President Charles Dean told WBOC he was unaware of the possible relocation until last month.
"We were not informed relocation was going to be on the town council's agenda," Dean said. "I was just shocked and angered and concerned."
Dean said their artifacts, many of which are centuries old, need to be climate-controlled, and a rushed relocation could damage them.
"I hope to convince the town council and the town government as a whole that our memorabilia, the historical society, and its collection will not be put out on the street," Dean said. "Because, quite frankly, no alternative location has been suggested."
Dean said the historical society, who currently use the building for free, are willing to compromise.
"We would gladly pay rent," Dean said. "We do have enough money in reserves so long as that rent is reasonable."
When asked about the possible relocation, Greensboro town manager Tammy Kelledes sent WBOC the following statement:
"Unfortunately, due to the conditions of the building we previously utilized as the Town Hall, the Town administrative staff and customer service areas were moved to 111 Main Street, which is also utilized by the Greensboro Police Department, Town Council for meetings, and Aaron’s Place satellite food pantry. This location does not provide enough space to accommodate all uses, and the Town does not have the funds to acquire additional property. To avoid an unplanned budget expenditure, we have discussed and considered utilizing the space that was leased to the Historical Society," Kelledes wrote.
"We understand that this could cause burdens on the Historical Society and we scheduled a meeting to discuss available options with their President and Historical Society board. We hoped to hold that meeting, but became aware that individuals posted that it was a public meeting. Having not posted the meeting pursuant to the Open Meetings Act, we were not comfortable holding that meeting and instead invited the Historical Society to attend the Council Meeting this evening. It is our hope that all parties can work together to find a solution to all spacing needs," Kelledes continued.
Town leaders said they plan to discuss the possible relocation with members of the historical society at their meeting on March 20th at 6pm.