The Backus complex in International Falls, the former high school that was saved from permanent closure two years ago thanks to the efforts of concerned citizens, again is in danger of being condemned if the building does not undergo some costly renovations.
The board of directors of Citizens for Backus/AB was informed last week that if the building is not outfitted with a sprinkler system, and the roofs are not replaced by September, the buildings will be condemned, said Margarett Patnode, the group’s media relations officer.
The public is invited to attend an informational meeting tomorrow (July 20) at 5 p.m. at the Backus auditorium to learn about the problems and offer input.
The board will be on hand to answer questions.
The Backus complex currently houses the Northland Art Society, two dance studios, a woodworking room, a writers’ studio, the home of the 4-H, a laser theater, rehearsal place for several orchestras, and a recently-refurbished Steinway grand piano.
The Border Concert Association and “Broadway on the Border” both perform on the Backus auditorium stage.
“Artists from all over the world have performed on the stage and have praised the acoustics in the auditorium,” Patnode noted.
The complex recently was listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.
“Losing these buildings would be a disservice to the community in the loss of space to house the activities so vital to the quality of life,” Patnode stressed.
Fort Frances Times
Local News from Across the Rainy River District
