Post Falls Historical Society Inc. and the 1,900-square-foot building it occupies at 101 E. Fourth, are facing uncertainty as the city of Post Falls considers a new tenant for the commercial space.

City officials announced earlier this year that they were accepting proposals from businesses, organizations, and individuals interested in leasing the city-owned Chapin Building while preserving its historic character and providing community value.

Since 2008, the Post Falls Historical Society has operated a museum at the property. The city indicated proposals could include uses that work in collaboration with the museum, but that is not a requirement.

The nonprofit historical society has invested an estimated $80,000 into preserving the historic space along with years of volunteer labor, says Kristine King, president of the organization.

Requests for proposals were prompted by basement repairs at the property that were not within the historic society's budget to fix at the time, according to the city's website. The city's request for proposals closed earlier this month, and submissions are expected to be evaluated by Aug. 20, the city's website shows.

A 2023 water intrusion at the property affected portions of the building, but has since been resolved through structural improvements, says King, adding that many public perceptions aren't an accurate reflection of the current condition of the structure.

"We fixed the water issue," King says. "People still think the building has all these problems, but that's not the reality today."

The historical society has submitted its own proposal to continue operating in the space, and King says Post Falls City Council members are expected to tour the museum on Aug. 3.

Representatives of the city did not immediately respond to the Journal's requests for comment.

Lacking confidence in a long-term agreement, King says the Post Falls Historical Society faces difficulty pursuing grants, attracting donors, and planning future capital improvements.

"Grantors want to know you're going to be there and in place," she says, adding that long-term stability is essential before investing time pursuing additional funding opportunities.

Concerns about the organization's agreement with the city have existed for years. Cindy Mead, treasurer for the Post Falls Historical Society, says language in the original license-to-use agreement appeared to allow termination at the city's discretion.

The 100-year-old building has served several public purposes throughout its history, and the city's request for proposals seeks a more active tenant to occupy the space. However, King contends the museum already fulfills that objective by providing educational opportunities and preserving the community's history.

"Our mission is preserving the history of Post Falls," King says. "Once history is gone, you can't get it back."

Volunteers have consistently maintained the historic structure while working to preserve its architectural character and historical significance. In addition to showcasing a collection of artifacts, the museum functions as an educational resource where residents, students, and visitors learn about the community's development, early industries, families, and landmarks.

Volunteers assist residents researching family histories, historical properties, and significant events, making the museum an important repository for regional information, King explains.

"We've spent years caring for this building and preserving our community's history," King says. "We simply want the opportunity to continue doing that."