Nearly $17 million plan to restore Joplin Memorial Hall to be unveiled Thursday

A nearly $17 million plan to bring Joplin Memorial Hall back to life will be unveiled Thursday as organizers launch a fundraising campaign to keep the project moving forward.

Friends of Joplin Memorial Hall will reveal proposed floor plans and architectural renderings during a public event at 2 p.m. October 15 inside the historic building at 212 W. Eighth St.

The nonprofit organization faces an October 1, 2027, deadline to raise at least $2 million in cash or financial commitments under an agreement with the city of Joplin.

That money will cover startup expenses, financing costs, operations and long-term sustainability.

It is separate from the estimated $16.7 million needed to renovate the building.

The proposed financing package includes state and federal historic tax credits, New Markets Tax Credits, grants and $7 million in city-issued bonds.

But the bonds come with a catch: Joplin voters must approve an increase in the city's hotel and motel lodging tax from 4% to 6%.

The tax increase and bond issuance are expected to appear on the April 2027 ballot.

Revenue from the additional lodging tax would repay the bonds rather than property taxes.

"We're excited to say Joplin residents will not see an increase in their taxes to pay for the preservation or revitalization of Joplin Memorial Hall," said Friends President Bob Harrington.

The city approved an agreement with the nonprofit earlier this year, establishing conditions for the renovation and future operation of the building.

Originally constructed in 1925 to honor local war veterans, Memorial Hall has fallen into disrepair and is unsafe to use in its current state.

The organization hopes construction can begin in 2028, with the restored facility reopening in 2029.

Thursday's unveiling is open to the public.