Board decides to close Wigwam in Anderson

ANDERSON, Ind. (WISH) - The Anderson Community Schools board has decided the fate of the historic Wigwam Gymnasium.

The school board voted 6-1 to close the gymnasium. About 60 teachers will also lose their jobs.

About 200 people packed Anderson High's auditorium Tuesday night to hear the fate of the historic Wigwam Gymnasium. The building's history is in the hearts of Anderson residents who say they are hitting the hardwood to save the gym.

"I'm not only trying to save the Wigwam; I'm trying to save Anderson, bring some hope to the people that are here," said Lisa England-Miller, of Anderson.

ACS Superintendent Felix Chow recommended to the school board last week to shut down the gymnasium. Chow said the district will save about $750,000 per year.

People on both sides voiced their concerns about the historic gym.

Patricia Coleman's father played for Anderson in 1946. Coleman isn't pleased with the board’s decision.

"For somebody to come in who has no history and no ties and make a decision and say that it’s easy and you can't imagine the feeling," she said.

Eric Alexander said he loves the building, but the school district is facing tough times.

"When are we going to learn that we can't spend what we don't have,” Alexander said. “We've got to consider the cost"

This is not the first time the Wigwam has been on the chopping block. Back in 2009, the school board voted to save the facility. Since then, enrollment has declined in Anderson and budget cuts have forced the district to close eight school buildings and cut staff.

Still, some believe the Wigwam has a future in Anderson.

"Something like the Wigwam brings everybody together; sports bring us together,” England-Miller said.

The gymnasium will shut down at the end of July.

There's already a group organized to keep the building open. One organizer said regardless of the board’s decision, they plan to gather March 17 to find ways to keep the building open.