Friends of Joplin Memorial Hall seeks $2 million commitment to advance restoration plan

Friends of Joplin Memorial Hall are working to raise $2 million in commitments by October 2027 to move forward with an ambitious plan to restore and modernize the historic facility.

Melody Colbert-Kean, vice president of Friends of Joplin Memorial Hall, discussed the effort during an interview on NewsTalk KZRG, describing the initiative as "Bring It Back" — a campaign to preserve the more than 100-year-old building for veterans, the community and future generations.

Colbert-Kean says the goal is not simply to restore the building to its former condition, but to transform it into a modern entertainment and community venue capable of hosting concerts, performances, expos and other events.

The proposed improvements would provide seating for more than 2,200 people, potentially bringing larger touring shows and entertainment to Joplin and the surrounding region.

But before the project can move forward, the organization must secure $2 million in financial commitments by October 2027.

Colbert-Kean says the group has raised or secured commitments totaling approximately $200,000 so far.

If the $2 million goal is reached, the proposal could advance through the city approval process and eventually go before Joplin voters.

The overall project is estimated to cost between $16.5 million and $17 million. Much of that funding would come through a proposed increase in the city's hotel and motel guest tax, which is expected to appear on the April ballot.

Colbert-Kean emphasized that the proposed tax would apply only to people staying in Joplin hotels and motels, not local residents' purchases, property or other sales.

She also stressed that the proposed tourism tax is not intended exclusively for Memorial Hall. Rather, it would establish a funding source for tourism-related capital projects in Joplin, with Memorial Hall serving as the first proposed project.

Supporters believe a revitalized Memorial Hall could become an important economic driver by attracting visitors who would spend money at local restaurants, hotels and businesses.

Colbert-Kean envisions the facility working alongside the nearby Cornell Complex to create an entertainment destination capable of hosting multiple events and drawing visitors to the area.

She also says the project is about more than economic development.

The organization wants younger generations to become involved in deciding what types of events and programming should be offered at Memorial Hall, rather than simply relying on memories of what the building once meant to previous generations.

"We are inviting them to become a part of the process," Colbert-Kean said. "We are open to hear their suggestions, we are open to hear what they would like to see."

The proposed venue could provide opportunities for concerts, children's entertainment, community events and regional performances that currently may bypass Joplin because of a lack of suitable facilities.

Colbert-Kean says the effort is intended to benefit a broad cross-section of the community, including veterans, seniors, young people and visitors.

Friends of Joplin Memorial Hall is also encouraging residents to participate through donations, volunteer efforts and available naming opportunities.

Those interested in helping can visit the organization's website at friendsofjoplinmemorialhall.joplin.org or find Friends of Joplin Memorial Hall on Facebook.

The organization plans to introduce additional opportunities for everyday community members to participate around March or April of next year.

Colbert-Kean says the group's message is summed up in another slogan: "50,000 Reasons to Bring It Back," representing the approximately 50,000 people who call Joplin home.