The North Tahoe Public Utility District is exploring a potential public-private partnership with Laulima Development to renovate and manage the North Tahoe Event Center in an attempt to become financially stable.

Three public meetings in February and March are planned to discuss the potential partnership and to solicit community input.

“As a whole the district is in a strong position financially, but we continue to face challenges with the recreation department,” said Duane Whitelaw, general manager of the district, said in a statement. “If this project proves feasible, it could bring a new building to Kings Beach that the community can be proud of, and continue to access, without our taxpayers shouldering the burden of the cost of the ongoing operation and maintenance and anticipated necessary upgrades.”

Laulima Development is in escrow on the Ferrari Crown Motel in Kings Beach. The idea is for Laulima to manage the center as an asset for its guests while also making it available for public and community events.

There will be a  public workshop Feb. 18 from 6 to 7:30pm at the center, the district’s Recreation and Parks Commission will meet Feb. 25 25 at 5:30pm at the center, and the NTPUD board workshop will be in March.