COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – The Coldwater City Council approved the introduction of a new five-year lease agreement on Monday night, allowing the Coldwater Community Center, Inc. to continue operating out of the city-owned Putnam Building, also known as the Beech House.
The decision, now moves the requeast forward as the non-profit organization’s current lease is set to expire on November 12, 2026.
Under the terms of the new agreement, the non-profit will continue to bypass traditional rent in exchange for providing volunteer labor, securing donations, and obtaining grants to actively repair and restore the historic former Putnam Funeral Home.
President/Volunteer Executive Director-, Kathy Bappert said over the last four years they have been busy with projects around the building such as new lights and security cameras that have increased the safety of the area, she said they are also working with area churches to address issues such as the homeless sleeping in the yard.
She added they work in concert with several organization’s to assure their programming fits the needs of the community.
The community center has utilized the space at 11 E. Chicago Street for the past few years to host a wide variety of public events, including crafting, sewing classes, historical presentations, murder mystery nights, and an English learning club.
Per the agreement, the organization is responsible for all utility expenses and must maintain general liability insurance, which covers its activities and private rentals—a feature utilized nine times over the past year.
Meanwhile, the City of Coldwater will remain responsible for maintaining the building’s exterior and providing property casualty insurance. The lease agreement is scheduled to come before the City Council for final approval at their next regular meeting on Monday, November 23, 2026.
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