The financial troubles of Fairfield Elks Lodge No. 1631 were laid out during a well-attended public meeting last Thursday night, with no clear path to recovery identified. Approximately 150 people were present to hear details about the club’s dire financial situation and to explore potential solutions—none of which materialized by the meeting’s end.
Elks trustee Jason Musgrave led the hour-long session before all non-members were asked to leave, allowing the discussion to continue privately among Elks members.
The lodge’s financial obligations include:
A $150,000 loan still owed to Fairfield National Bank
Over $30,000 in unpaid payroll taxes
An additional $2,000 in back sales tax
Virtually no operating cash on hand
According to members familiar with the finances, an estimated $250,000 would be needed to completely wipe out the club’s debt and provide a minimal reserve of operating capital.
While suggestions such as increased volunteerism and financial sponsorships for events were offered by engaged members, no concrete plan or future meeting was scheduled, and the overall outlook remains grim.
The Fairfield Elks Lodge, a long-standing fraternal organization in the community, may be nearing the end of its operations unless a significant financial lifeline is secured soon.
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