As construction on the new Harlan Center nears completion, furnishing the interior of building is becoming the focus for the Harlan Tourism and Convention Commission.

At Wednesday's regular meeting, the commission met with three firms that hoped to provide furnishings for the facility.

In particular, commission members were focusing on banquet tables and stacking chairs as well as the possibility of some lounge furniture and meeting accommodations.

Representatives from CG Concepts, the Edward-Don Company and Tom Sexton and Associates together with Palmer Sander Furniture displayed samples of various styles of furniture that might fit the needs of a convention center.

Commission members stressed that furniture for the center would not only need to blend in with the buildings color schemes, but would need to be durable and multi-functional.

The center is designed to host various types of events, such as wedding receptions, concerts and meetings, so members wanted chairs that would comfortably accommodate the events.

The commission did not choose any furniture styles at the meeting, but decided to further review the samples submitted by each firm before making a decision.

In other business, the commission:

n announced that the Masons will sponsor a corner stone for the center, and the ceremony is scheduled for July 18;

n heard from Blanton Coates, who gave an update on the progress of the center;

n approved Kentucky Mine Supply's bid for decorative lighting. The approved lighting fixture costs approximately $550 per light;

n received proposals for landscape materials. Grassroots, Mills Greenhouse and Davis Brothers Nursery all submitted proposals, but no decision was made.