What can we do about the Stagecoach/Pioneer Inn building to get it back in use.

By Julie Pierce

Last week's newspapers printed a letter from Candidate Walcutt's wife, Pam, which grossly misrepresented what I had said during a public forum in Clayton. My response in contained below.

Mrs. Walcutt's representation in last week's Concord Transcript and Clayton Pioneer of my remarks at the Clayton Business and Community Association's Candidate Forum was grossly inaccurate. I have always been, and remain, dedicated to the preservation of Clayton's history.

The candidates were asked what could be done to get the Pioneer Inn building back in use. My answer was that the current structure no longer resembles the historic building and will be very expensive to restore to viable use. Quotes in excess of $1 million have been received by prospective buyers.

Extensive restoration would be required to modernize the kitchen, update the electrical system, and make it accessible for all community members. I suggested that we should instead encourage it's replacement with a replica of the original Clayton Hotel on that site. The Clayton Historic Society has photos of the two story building, as it was before the fire in 1951, when the top floor burned and the building was converted to a single story facility. The entire building could be used to house a premier eating establishment with the upper floor available for social events. Any changes would, of course, be subject to the full scrutiny of the community through the Planning Commission and City Council process.

The City has formally requested and received confirmation from the Alcohol Control Board that proximity to the elementary school and the day care center would not be grounds for denial of an alcohol permit. Permits could be obtained for restaurants in downtown with the approval of the City and with Police Department verification that there is no history of problems at the applicant's site.

With proper management, that location could once again house a thriving business that Clayton would be proud of.

Thank you for allowing me to correct the record. Please feel free to call with questions or futher ideas about this issue.

Julie Pierce Vice Mayor, City of Clayton 925-672-3238