Cleburne's City Council is considering a significant funding request that could impact local employment and community services. During a recent meeting, representatives from a local museum presented a request for $130,000 in HOP (Hotel Occupancy Tax) funds to support their operations and address rising costs.

The museum's representatives highlighted the challenges they face, including the loss of a contract with the Johnson County Probation Department, which previously provided community service workers. This loss has resulted in the museum needing to hire two full-time maintenance staff, adding nearly $45,000 to their annual expenses. Additionally, they have had to increase salaries for existing staff, bringing total unexpected salary costs to approximately $90,000.

The museum plays a vital role in the community, attracting around 50,000 visitors annually. The funding request aims to ensure that the museum can continue to operate effectively and maintain its facilities, which span over 10 acres. The representatives emphasized that without this financial support, the museum's ability to serve the community could be jeopardized.

The council's decision on this funding request will be crucial for the museum's future operations and its ongoing contribution to Cleburne's cultural landscape. As discussions continue, the community awaits the council's response to this pressing need.