By Tyler Beadle

The Bishop City Council meeting on October 27, 2025, began at 6:01 p.m. in the City Council Chambers at 377 W. Line St. and extended past 8:15 p.m., addressing a full agenda that culminated in Item 17.B: the structural integrity and future of the Chamber of Commerce A-frame building at 690 N. Main St. City Administrator Pamela Foster presented the Wood Rodgers engineering report by Eric Toschi, P.E., which rated the 55-year-old structure in “POOR” condition. Key findings included overstressed second-floor joists, unclear structural connections, and foundation posts in the southern addition undermined by creek erosion. The report estimated repair costs at $200,000 to $2 million and demolition at around $90,000. Foster stated that additional invasive inspections are required for detailed assessments.

Public comment on the A-frame was extensive. Leslie emphasized the site’s prime location for buses and RVs. Joyce, a visitors center host, highlighted its daily visitor draw. Gayla Wolff criticized the item’s late agenda placement and the Chamber’s planned November 12 closure of the current facility, advocating for local contractors—identified through Carl Holscher—to undertake repairs at lower costs. Jennifer Beaudean, a small business owner, expressed concerns about the new south-end location’s effectiveness. Lynette referenced Clyde Coons, asserting the building qualifies for historic designation and has been neglected. Noel G. thanked the council for including the item, arguing the structure is grandfathered under the original codes. Everyone else who spoke was in support of the A-frame before the mayor transitioned to council discussion.

Council responses varied. Mayor Karen Kong referenced resident feedback, prioritizing infrastructure over the A-frame. Council Member Karen Schwartz advocated for no immediate decision. Jose Garcia opposed leaving the building vacant on Main Street, supporting full demolition given the Chamber’s new facility. Dennis Freundt stated the southern portion must be removed but noted significant community interest. Stephen Muchovej described the issues as a “large wound” requiring more than temporary fixes, estimating all options to exceed $1 million, and suggested alternatives like a ballroom or park entrance redesign at the former Mo-Mart lot. The city attorney advised that phased demolition would increase costs. Garcia affirmed that he believes demolition aligns with his electoral mandate. Most of the council deemed restoration unrealistic. Kong, expressing sadness, supported demolition due to prohibitive repair expenses. Staff were directed to initiate the demolition permit process, which is expected to take one year or longer due to CEQA and other factors; no official vote was taken, and they moved on.

Many people left the room after the A-Frame decision and started conversing in the hall. Lots of the citizens who stayed for Agenda Item 17.B were upset with the outcome. Some even started thinking about new courses of action, which leads me to believe this may not be over.

Earlier agenda items included public comment on unrelated matters: Carl Arnal on drug and alcohol-related deaths, along with their effects on the youth, Michelle Hartshorn opposing the new bridge housing plan, and Todd Bradley on sidewalk enforcement and recommending a dark sky ordinance. The council honored retiring Police Captain Josh Ellsworth for 30 years of service. Department reports covered fire safety (Chief Brett Russell), police activities including the e-bike ordinance (Chief Nate Derr), water meter pilots and Warren St. projects (Public Works), Field 6 designs (Community Services), and administrative updates (Foster). The Bishop Tourism Improvement District report, by Executive Director Tawni Thomson, noted upward trends in the hospitality sector despite sector challenges. She also provided a good update on how they are using the visitor enhancement funds, such as fish stocking and the rock climbers’ outreach. IMACA reported federal grant reductions affecting food distribution. Wild Iris secured October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month, as the City Council dedicated it. Tri-County Fairgrounds Director Mike Francesconi announced profitability and other updates. The consent calendar passed 5-0, with Hartshorn commenting on a Line St. bridge plan. The 2025-2030 Water and Sewer Capital Improvement Plans were adopted in the new business.

The full meeting’s agenda is available at cityofbishop.ca.gov. Stay tuned for more City of Bishop updates in future articles. Have any comments or thoughts? You can email me at [email protected].