Patterson Apartments: They're Coming Down

[sheclown]

We need a political solution, an ordinance which protects historic properties. 

[Timkin]

Agree ...and Florida Trust and/or National Trust may be able to coach you on how to make that happen .

[Springfielder]

We need a political solution, an ordinance which protects historic properties. 

I couldn't agree more, and it's a darn shame that the historic committee doesn't seem to be doing this...and of course, in the past, spar has not been one of the supporters of demolition. Something needs to be done, and why isn't Gaffney doing all he can to stop what's happening?

[sheclown]

Why would Gaffney be against what SPAR wanted?  He was listening to Louise speaking on behalf of the neighborhood.  I'm sure he felt he was doing what his constituents wanted.

[Springfielder]

And has spar, under the new leadership contacted him to get support to NOT demo?

[sheclown]

Good question. 

[avs]

Let's set up a meeting with Gaffney ourselves

[Debbie Thompson]

Reading the minutes, I find several disturbing issues.


Lastly, why doesn't the City have the authority to stabilize the property and lien it just like when they cut the weeds, do the demo, etc.?  Did anyone see if the cost of stabilization is cheaper than demo?  The companion part to this is when the City is forced to do the stabilization or consider a demo, it should have the power to seize the property and immediately put it up for an auction sale to hopefully attract a more caring owner.  Any proceeds left after paying off City liens, fines, fees, interest, etc. can revert to the exiting owner.

As I understand it, the City has the legal authority to do this now...just not the will.

National Trust?  Sure, let's get them involved.  But I think the local media should be involved.  I think we should scream out loud.  At one time, SPAR sued the City over this. Maybe another lawsuit is in order.

[Springfielder]

Good idea....the media should without a doubt be involved in this and we all need to apply pressure to whomever we can to stop the destruction of our neighborhood. Perhaps we can organize some sort of protest and of course, contact the media to let them know....thoughts?

[sheclown]

I think the first step is to talk to the HPC and voice our concerns.  They may not even realize how valuable these homes are to us.  All they have heard is that "we" want them down.  Let's give them the chance and see what happens.

Let's ask them to go to OGC office and get a moratorium on demo's until a political solution is found.

We need to get back to the 2007 ordinance which changed  the way condemned properties were treated and rework that ordinance. 

[sheclown]

as iloveionia stated:

Please send an email of opposition to Lisa in the HPC Office:
sheppard@coj.net

She and this office is our voice of reason, support, and opposition.

[sheclown]

If one needs to have an EPA certification before touching building components -- what precautions is the city of Jacksonville taking to ensure our safety while performing this demolition?

I don't know about you guys, but I'm scared....I certainly hope they are considering all of the small children with developing bodies who live nearby and might inhale some lead dust.

[Timkin]

The media should identify Historic Landmarks in danger in Springfield and everywhere else... This is an important topic for Springfield.. the few pieces that stand in LaVilla and Brooklyn, and every other area of Jacksonville.

[movedsouth]

gone... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xFVE8kf2BcA

Look at it from the bright side: Only about 100 buildings to demolish and all of Springfield will be in compliance with code! Enough empty land for a herd of goats. Or what about a city airport? Ionia could be the runway.

[avs]

that was such a great building.  definately a "contributing" building.