Community room in Pea Ridge for residents’ use

— The Emergency Services building in Pea Ridge was built in 1993 to house the fire, ambulance and police departments. It also houses a community room for day-use rental for parties, celebrations, dinners and more.

The room features a kitchen with new appliances and access to 10 tables and 80 chairs. It can hold 100 people with tables set up or 200 without.

Since the building was built by the city and there is no tax paid on the property, the room may only be rented to not for profit individuals, groups, organizations or companies.

“No money can change hands,” said city recorder Sandy Button. “You cannot sell anything or charge admission, we are very specific when we ask what therental is for.”

The room can be rented from 7 a.m. until midnight, and costs $50 per day. A deposit of $100 is required when renters pick up the key, but will be returned provided the room is left in its original state.

Renters must reserve the room in person at City Hall.

Rental of the room is not limited to residents of Pea Ridge, and is reserved on a first come, first served basis.

Mayor Jackie Crabtree said the cost of rental goesinto the city general fund and doesn’t even cover one month’s utilities for the building; this room is provided solely for the use and enjoyment of the community.

News, Pages 7 on 05/25/2011