Area residents can voice their opinions on the Skylon Feb. 12

HARTINGTON — Area residents will get a chance next week to help decide the fate of a historic dance hall.

Hartington Mayor Mark Becker is planning a town hall forum Monday, Feb. 12, to get input on an idea to relocate the Skylon Ballroom and then use it as a community center.

Becker said he has scheduled the town hall meeting at the City Auditorium so Hartington City Council members can hear the community's thoughts about relocating the ballroom.

Ferdie Peitz opened the facility in 1952 after he had Hoesing Brothers Construction move it from Homewood Park and locate it on a five-acre lot at the corner of Highways 84 and 57.

The Skylon, which has hosted dances from big band to hard rock music, was inducted into the Nebraska Music Hall of Fame in 1996.

The facility isn't only used for concerts, but also for wedding dances, banquets, craft fairs and for Sunday afternoon roller skating.

Becker said the facility has a proud history, but if area residents don't want to pursue it, there is nothing he can do.

If the project does not gain enough community support at that meeting, it will most likely not go on the May 14 primary election ballot, he said.

If the Skylon is to continue, it will have to be .........

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