Letter to the Editor: Hope for the Rives Mansion

Dear Editor:

I've lived in Downey for 45-plus years and am sad to see this historical site go down the tubes.

 What about holding various fundraisers in conjunction with a non-profit?. This would be a great place to have a museum and possibly even incorporate several Downey nonprofits together. Surely there is much that can be done. 

I understand liability risks, but perhaps local contractors and even retired workers might volunteer to restore the mansion. Has anyone talked to Home Depot and other businesses about donations? 

The mansion, if restored, could be rented out as a small wedding venue with restrictions, could house offices of non'-profits, perhaps the Stay Gallery art museum, etc.

Maggie Allen
Downey