Demolish the old garage? Planning says not so fast
Lamar Advertising, the billboard company that owns the old gas station property on Archibald Avenue and Foothill Boulevard, wants to demolish the back building. During the heavy rains over Christmas, the building once used as a service station caved in.
Last night, the Planning Commission said a landmark alteration permit must be submitted and approved before any demolition or debris removal can take place.
"I think it sends the message we do not want this building to be demolished," said Commissioner Frances Howdyshell.
Two years ago, the city gave this 110-year old garage, historic landmark status. Demolishing the building with such a designation now could be a misdemeanor, said Steven Flower, an attorney for the Planning Commission.
Ed Dietl, who started the Historical Preservation Association because he wanted to save this gas station, reminded the commission that the front building is just as old and just as capable of falling apart.
"Please consider the little bit of history left in this city," he said.
Dietl showed photos of the ruined building with old gas pumps inside. He said they were there shortly after the storm but the pumps have since been removed.
Planning Director James Troyer said he has asked Lamar permission to do an inventory and remove any artifacts inside the building. Lamar has refused.
Last night, the Planning Commission said a landmark alteration permit must be submitted and approved before any demolition or debris removal can take place.
"I think it sends the message we do not want this building to be demolished," said Commissioner Frances Howdyshell.
Two years ago, the city gave this 110-year old garage, historic landmark status. Demolishing the building with such a designation now could be a misdemeanor, said Steven Flower, an attorney for the Planning Commission.
Ed Dietl, who started the Historical Preservation Association because he wanted to save this gas station, reminded the commission that the front building is just as old and just as capable of falling apart.
"Please consider the little bit of history left in this city," he said.
Dietl showed photos of the ruined building with old gas pumps inside. He said they were there shortly after the storm but the pumps have since been removed.
Planning Director James Troyer said he has asked Lamar permission to do an inventory and remove any artifacts inside the building. Lamar has refused.
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