We have been members of (and have donated to) the Powerhouse Science Center over the years. Like many, we were shocked and dismayed at its sudden and unexplained closure because of financial insolvency. We are pleased that steps are being taken to revive and improve it, however, we are disturbed that a critical first step has not been taken – i.e. a full, detailed, public disclosure of how this came to pass.
What mistakes were made? How could it (seemingly) have come as a surprise to the board? Why was there no inkling of the coming crisis made public (in order to address it) before it was too late? Most importantly, looking back, what concrete lessons have been learned that can be applied to a “re-boot” of the center, ensuring that what led to this crisis will not be repeated?
It is only common decency to give such an explanation to those who have supported and funded the center thus far. And only by engaging in this exercise of full disclosure and analysis will the requisite community trust be re-gained moving forward.
Without it, I have no doubt that many of those who have supported the center in the past will feel burned and, not unsurprisingly, withhold their support. We’re keeping our fingers crossed.
Gregor Gardner
Durango
