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There has long been talk of the need for a convention center in Anacortes. In fact, one has been mentioned in the city’s Comprehensive Plan as a goal, and I often heard people testify about the need for one during City Council hearings. Recently, rumor had it that the Port and Chamber of Commerce were discussing such a project.

And now, a grassroots group has sprouted and seems to at least have some initial momentum. That’s good. Things should begin with some general conversation. But conversation should be as far as we go until some fundamental groundwork is laid.

First thing that comes to my mind is determining what we’re talking about and how much need exists for such a project ... if there’s any need at all. Perhaps some research into “conventions” would be in order.

What is their size range? Where are the more successful centers located? Why? What amenities are convention planners seeking? How much use of them is made? What is the range of purposes they meet? Do they make money or consume it?

Do they create local jobs? If so, of what quality? Should they include lodging and dining opportunities? How are they paid for? This list is probably only the beginning of the research that should take place before picking out the paint colors and curtains.

Although I’ve been to a fair number of convention centers in my travels, I’m certainly no expert. But, I’ve noticed a few things that might mean something. Most have been located smack in the middle of a city or adjacent to a major tourist draw, like Disneyland, which may indicate convention-goers like some entertainment and shopping opportunities close by.

Some have been close to a major airport, indicating a possible desire for convenient transportation and access. Some have been fully self-contained and located some distance from civilization, such as the Sun Mountain Lodge across the Cascades outside of Winthrop and Twisp, indicating a desire to conduct a meeting in a remote location and natural setting.

Rather than confine our horizons to a place to have some meetings, let’s consider some other possibilities. I like the term Event Center. I’d like a local place which can host “events” such as concerts, plays, festivals, sports, trade shows and other get-togethers in addition to conventions. Things like these bring interest to town for the local residents and bring in money from outside the community by attracting visitors to town for the events.

And, the centers can provide a quality meeting place for local organizations, be it the weekly bird and bread lunches for local service clubs, or parties like the Waterfront Festival kickoff dinner. How about having an occasional “big name” entertainer put on a concert here? We used to have some at Brodniak Hall but that was 20 years ago.

How about providing a venue for the thousands of senior citizen square dancers who travel around in their zillion dollar RVs specifically to attend dancing events? Add the possibility of wedding receptions and other similar functions, and you can probably have a pretty full dance card ... if you design what your homework indicates you need and will be supported ... and you put it in the right place. But, you gotta do your homework!

In Anacortes, the choices for the “right place” are pretty skinny. Among the limited choices are port property, MJB property and tribal property, plus one or two privately owned pieces.

Now, I’ve heard rumors that the port property north of Cap Sante Marina, where Westport was looking at locating, might be a good place. I don’t think so. Why build what will doubtless be a multi-million dollar center surrounded by a sewage treatment plant, a log yard and other industrial activity, all located in a rather remote area of the city? That spot seems like a great place for a marine trades skills center to me.

If you’re going to do something like an event center, make it the showpiece of town and build it in a very prominent location convenient to the rest of the commercial, dining and hospitality industry. I’d sure encourage people who have some ideas on what Anacortes needs along these lines to tell somebody what they think.

Columnist Terry Christiansen, a former Anacortes City Council member, welcomes comments and suggestions. Contact him at .