There aren’t a whole lot of spaces on Central Whidbey that can accommodate larger meeting groups and events.

A majority of community gatherings seem to be held at Coupeville Recreation Hall.

With its open space, kitchen and bathroom facilities, and central location, the rec hall is an ideal location.

Recently the furnace went out at the rec hall. Town council had $6,000 set aside for replacement, but approved last week to spend $14,000 on replacement.

Mayor Nancy Conard asked council to approve a higher expenditure to cover the cost of an entirely new system.

Anyone who’s been in the rec hall during the winter knows it’s not the warmest place to be.

It usually takes some time to heat the space with the one existing heat register and most people come prepared with a coat when attending meetings or events there in the winter.

The towns approval of installing a more efficient system is a great decision.

The rec hall is an asset to this community, a widely-used and appreciated asset.

We’re lucky to have it.

The town has the extra funds to cover the expense, so why not? Purchasing a better system is not only an investment back into the building, but an investment to the community.

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On a side note, don’t forget to attend the Red Ticket Drawing, 1 p.m. Sunday outside the Island County Historical Museum.

Coupeville Historic Waterfront Association will be drawing winners, the grand prize being a $1,000 check. Also, The Whidbey Examiner in partnership with the Coupeville Library, will announce the winners of the Gingerbread Challenge.

Winners will be chosen for best adult, child and people’s choice.

Prizes were donated by local businesses — Coupeville Coffee and Bistro, Collections and Honeybear

There are many great entries on display now. Try to get down there to vote prior to Saturday morning if you haven’t already.

— Megan is editor of The Whidbey Examiner. She can be reached at mhansen@whidbeynewsgroup.com