Get armory off the list

We don’t blame state government officials for looking at worst-case scenarios while they prepare for the significant drop in income that their agencies will have to absorb over the next two years.

It’s better to acknowledge that the worst is possible than to pretend it’s not and then have to explain to a skeptical public why you weren’t ready.

Specifically, we’re perplexed that the state would even consider closing the National Guard armory in Baker City.

The $5 million armory was built less than five years ago.

The building is important not only as headquarters for the soldiers who defend our country and are ready to help local residents during natural disasters, but also as a place for public meetings and other events.

A spokesman for the Oregon Military Department said this week that closing the Baker City armory is “a drastic measure” which officials hope to avoid.

We’re confident the state could find many less vital buildings to put on its worst-case scenario list.