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Paul Craig - The Roseburg News-Review November 5, 2006
Plans are still moving forward for a convention center in downtown Roseburg, according to Wayne Shammel, attorney for the Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians. Despite rumors that a long-discussed plan for such a venture at the former Douglas County Farmer's Co-Op and Surplus Center was on hold, Shammel said that is not the case.
"It's at a fairly advanced stage of planning," he said.
That includes restaurant staff surveying the sites, which are now in tribal trust, to determine how many kitchens are needed, as well as supplies and equipment.
The buildings have also been steam cleaned and more "gutting" work is scheduled, along with asbestos removal.
Even so, Shammel did say progress probably should be further along. Costs are still being determined while preparation work is handled. Until those costs are established, Shammel said, no timeline for construction is set.
There are tentative plans to deconstruct the grain tower behind the former co-op this winter or in early spring, Shammel said.
Shammel said he understands that people have wondered if the project has been abandoned, but said "we're moving ahead."
THOSE TRUCKS: There is some heavy machinery parked at the former site of The Holiday Motel on Oak Avenue in downtown Roseburg, which is also owned by the tribe. It isn't new construction on that now vacant lot, however.
Wayne Shammel said the trucks and equipment are just parking there while they work on another project. The former motel site, Shammel said, will likely end up as a conference center parking lot one day.