The future of Carhenge will be discussed during tonight’s (Thursday) Alliance City Council meeting.

Friends of Carhenge board members Marcia Buck, Dave Pearse, and Kendra Schott will make appear before the council and discuss the possibility of the city taking over Carhenge.

In a memo to the council, City Manager J.D. Cox says he and Tourism Director Kevin Howard were approached a few months ago by Friends of Carhenge and asked if the city would ever consider taking over the 25-year-old tourist attraction.

Cox says the Friends proposed that in return for the city taking over the facilty, the friends would turn over all assets, including a bank note of $5,350, and balance sheet that reflects fixed assets of approximately $113,000. The profit and loss statement shows that Carhenge was right at break-even status last year with revenues of approximately $39,000, including sales of $32,000 and expenses also approximately at $39,000 for payroll, advertising, insurance, utilities and other fees.

“I came to the conclusion that his is a matter of very large consideration,” Cox told the council. “No doubt there will be those who may outright oppose the idea, yet there will be others who will think it is a good idea. In fact, having a community dialogue to fully air out a discussion and consideration seems most appropriate.”

Cox is suggesting the council hear tonight’s presentation, and that the city then conduct “due diligence” on the issue. He is recommending council direct city staff to fully explore the issue, including legal review, and report back a future date. Additionally, Cox suggests that perhaps a public forum might be held to “fully flush” out the idea, following which then council could consider a decision.

Tonight’s council meeting begins at 7 p.m, and will be televised live on Charter Cable Channel 6.