RIPON – Another assembly place in town will soon re-open.

The old museum building at Mavis Stouffer Park is currently undergoing a makeover.

“We got a good start (on the building),” said Ted Johnson at Tuesday’s Ripon City Council meeting. “We should be done in a month.”

As the director of public works, he’s watched the building with extensive dry rot take shape into a place that can one day be used to conduct meetings, family reunions or small weddings.

Work began over a month ago at an estimated cost of $26,000. This City of Ripon project was conducted in-house and in three phases using temporary employees.

Their efforts included repairs to the walls, putting in an additional restroom, making minor handicap modifications, constructing a storage closet, replacing the existing side exit door, and installing new hardware, cabinets, sinks, and counter tops.

Additional work will consist of purchasing new tables and chairs, restriping the existing parking lot in front building, putting in a handicap parking spot, and painting the exterior of the building.

“We need to put a fee rate on the rental soon on the new meeting place,” Councilman Chuck Winn said.

He’s also looking forward to having an open house to showcase the newly remodeled building.

To reach reporter Vince Rembulat, e-mail vrembulat@mantecabulletin.com