Maricopa possesses diverse and tangible artistic talent yet lacks worthy space to showcase it. The recent conversation around repurposing the original police headquarters building brought that gap back into focus, and it’s worth setting the record straight on what actually happened and why the city made the right call.

Originally, in addition to proposed art gallery and performance areas, general retail space was also included. The estimated budget for the renovations was over $3 million, about $2 million short to do it right. The current renovation is estimated slightly below $3 million for office space, which is a better fit for the building’s existing design.

The issue was never simply cost alone. $3 million for a space that fell short of expectations and need isn’t a bargain – it’s a different kind of disappointment for everyone concerned. The cost difference isn’t the point either – it’s design and funding sufficient to purpose, content, having room to grow and responsibly achieving the best outcome. It affirms our strategic priorities and importance of branding Maricopa as a destination city.

Other equally important factors were quality of space and end product. During meetings, it was stated that the lighting and sound packages alone would cost around $500,000. Given the importance of those elements, quality had to be the priority. That drove up costs.

Rental fees were another consideration. At the time, the city couldn’t guarantee that fees would be comparable or lower than other available spaces.

Building design presented significant challenges. Performances need space for dressing rooms, large access doors for props and scenery, excellent acoustics, sightlines, a raised stage/proscenium and seating to maximize enjoyment and attendance. The dressing room area was also going to be a conference room. Storage was woefully limited. Some revisions were made, but they weren’t enough.

Retail space severely compromised art space. A “gallery” became a hallway where items were hung, with no display cases or other elements for a variety of art objects. The flow between spaces wasn’t smooth, necessitating walking through the gallery to get to the retail spaces or restrooms. It wasn’t a good layout.

Another glaring omission was a functional food prep area and kitchen. There was a small area for those working in the building, but catering events would have been a logistical nightmare loaded with problems.

The city was very accommodating in reaching out to members of the arts community. Committee meetings were held and input was gathered. Mayor Nancy Smith held multiple meetings with strategic arts groups and individuals to discuss the project and its elements. Residents spoke at city council meetings’ call to the public. Representatives from various arts organizations spoke up, sharing opinions and ideas.

In the end, cost, compromised functionality and quality of the finished product led staff and city council to say no to the project. It was the right decision because Maricopa does not need another project where we cut corners to meet a low-ball budget rather than plan, design, fund and deliver to exceed expectations.

Maricopa desperately needs an exceptional state-of-the-art art space (pun intended). The question becomes does the city provide an art space, or do we wait for a private entity to bring one? Regardless of who does it, an art space must accommodate all art forms and have a “WOW” factor. The space must be flexible, affordable and accessible for single-use or multiple dates, most particularly evenings and weekends.

Making the former PD building a “one-stop shop” for development services and economic development is prudent. Gilbert did it, which centrally-located those departments, making them more efficient. We need a place that can attract, retain, expand and facilitate business development. We’re poised for the next wave of restaurants, shops and retail and this space will help showcase Maricopa’s potential and possibilities.

The city made a responsible choice, so to say they “backed out” gives an incomplete and somewhat stilted perspective. For now, we continue to seek balance between what’s needed and what’s wanted, between “it’s coming” vs. “someday”. We’ll get there, but let’s do this right, not right now.