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Gainesville city commissioners change course on Thelma Boltin Center

City commissioners have changed course on what lies ahead for Gainesville's historic Thelma Boltin Center, opting now for a renovation instead of what was previously called a "partial restoration."

Commissioners voted 4-3 on the new plan with Mayor Harvey Ward and commissioners Reina Saco and Casey Willits in dissent.

Those opposed to the new plan say they fear the building will continue to deteriorate even after the fixes and that there may be more problems with the building than they even know of now. Supporters say they think the new plan will help get the doors open faster.

The new plan will instead focus on more minor repairs for the building. This replaces one aspect community members heavily protested under the original plan, which included demolishing part of the center.

Jacob is a reporter for WUFT News who can be reached by calling 352-392-6397 or emailing jacobsedesse@ufl.edu. Find him on Twitter and Instagram @JACOBSEDESSE.