(KNZA)---Representatives of the Brown County Historical Society met with the County Commission Monday to ask that they reconsider the organization’s  2019 budget allocation.

Historical Society Treasurer Delores Waite showed the Commission that as of July 19, the organization was operating at a more than $5,000 loss so far for the year.

Since submitting their budget request, Waite says the Historical Society has approved a $14,000 contract with a local pest control firm to address the  ongoing problem with bats in their downtown Memorial Auditorium Museum.

The Hiawatha Area Arts and Theatre Society, which uses the building, has told the Historical Society if the problem is not resolved they may have to find a new home.  

Historical Society Director Lynn Allen said the stage curtains in the auditorium need to be replaced. Grants will be sought to help cover the estimated cost of $20,000.  

Waite also explained the ongoing expense of the Hiawatha World office building, owned by the organization, which is responsible for paying the taxes and insurance.

Commission Chairman Steve Roberts told the Historical Society representatives the 2019 county budget is already set and has been approved for publication.

It includes $52,500 budgeted for the Historical Society, a $2,500 increase over what they received for 2018.  The Historical Society had requested $55,000 for 2019.  

The Commission is to consider adoption of the 2019 budget following a public hearing at their August 6th meeting.