Still standing: HDAC declines to OK razing of historic house
By Mark Cowling | Florence Reminder & Blade Tribune
The Historic District Advisory Commission (HDAC) rejected a request to demolish the historic Celaya/Long/Sweeney residence at 170 E. Ruggles St., which lost its roof in a recent storm.
The commission’s action Friday delays demolition for at least six months in hopes that the owners can find a buyer.
Town planner Will Randolph told the HDAC that the owners are willing to convey the property to the town and demolition would be in the interest of health and safety.
HDAC Vice Chair Cathy Adam commented that the town also found the building to be structurally sound. She continued that if the town begins approving demolition of structurally sound buildings, it might receive more requests from absentee landlords who would like nothing more than to tear down their buildings. If the town wants to recommend demolition in such a case, it shouldn’t be for “general welfare,” Adam said.
