September 27, 2023
The City of Mill Valley has determined that the placement of historic locomotive “Engine No. 9” in a temporary location at City Hall is not feasible, City Manager Todd Cusimano announced today. The decision was made in consultation with Mayor Jim Wickham and Councilmember Caroline Joachim, who were appointed by Council in June to assess the proposal before executing a 5-year lease agreement.
"We are immensely grateful to the members of The Friends of Engine No. 9 for their commitment to preserving the rich history of Mill Valley. However, following a thorough examination of the proposal, we have reached the conclusion that it is not currently a viable match for the intended location,” Mayor Wickham said.
The proposed short-term home for the steam engine was first announced in April 2023 by Mayor Wickham in collaboration with the Friends of No. 9. At their June 2023 meeting, Council authorized the City Manager to further evaluate the proposal.
Councilmember Joachim added, "We recognize the historical significance of Engine No. 9 and extend our gratitude to the Friends of Engine No. 9 for their diligent work and commitment to preserve the locomotive and share it with the community. We will continue to support the effort to find an appropriate location for the locomotive.”
City Manager Cusimano’s memo to Council outlining the decision can be viewed here.