Plantersville Town Hall completes renovation

The Board of Directors of Plantersville Town Hall, Inc. were pleased to welcome approximately 200 attendees to its grand re-opening celebration Saturday, Oct. 2.

Board President Karen Hale began with introductions. Father Ed Kucera, of St. Mary Catholic Church in Plantersville, blessed the occasion. There were comments from State Representative Cecil Bell and Grimes County Judge Joe Fauth. Johnny McNally, Navasota Grimes County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director led the Ribbon Cutting ceremony officially marking the re-opening of Plantersville Town Hall.

Renovation Project 2021 began as a plan to restore the 1915 building to better serve the Plantersville community. It included an expansion, cosmetic improvements and ADA required upgrades to the historic Town Hall building. The ultimate goal was to ensure the building lasted another 100 plus years. An upgraded floor plan of the restored hall includes a larger ADA kitchen, ADA restrooms, an ADA access ramp with designated parking, a bridal suite and more.

Part of the restoration project included removing paneling installed in a past update and exposing the original shiplap walls. The intent was to showcase the treasured building, preserve its history, and provide more usable space for the enjoyment of the community. Re-installation of windows on the front of the building returned it to its original look.

There was a special check presentation of $5,000 from the Navasota Evening Lions Club, represented by B. J. Moody and several other members. Hale introduced the 2021 PTH Board: Sue Underwood, Marilyn Bettes, Dennis Rock, Mary Ann Waters, Terry Bratcher, John Greenwood, IV, Kris Gordon, Cindy Waitz, and Rusty Maddox.

The afternoon included live music provided by several local musicians including Charlie Fenn and Maxine Dry, Bill Mock and Karl Waitz, and the Trent Cowie Band. The Board was extremely fortunate to have Tommy Szymczak, the auctioneer who held the original Town Hall Opening auction in 1990, conduct the live auction. In appreciation, the PTH Board presented him with a plaque to commemorate his service. Prime Country BBQ, Terry Spellman, Violet Lopez, and their team of cookers prepared the excellent smoked chicken.

The Plantersville Town Hall, Inc. Board appreciates the opportunity to serve the supportive, caring community who generously assists with projects, including scholarships to local area students, maintenance of the historic barber shop and the playground. Thank you, Plantersville!