Label
Demolition Permits for Buildings of Historical Importance
Gadus, Hobbs, Sarantou, Driscoll
Title
Declaring a One-Year Moratorium on the Issuance of Demolition Permits for Buildings of Historical Community Importance in the City of Toledo; and Declaring an Emergency.
Summary
SUMMARY & BACKGROUND:
For purposes of this ordinance, buildings of historical community importance, are defined as privately-owned structures that have been in existence for at least 75 years and whose purpose, among others, was to be used as a regular gathering place for individuals for a common goal. Buildings of historical community importance include but are not limited to community and/or cultural centers, places of worship, or other structures that regularly gathered together 20 or more individuals for a common purpose.
These structures may be significant cultural and/or architectural assets that contribute to the character and identity of the city. Recognizing the importance of preserving these structures, this ordinance proposes a one-year moratorium on the issuance of demolition permits for buildings of historical community importance within the city limits.
These structures may also play a vital role in shaping the fabric of their respective neighborhoods. Demolition of these structures can have profound and lasting effects on the surrounding communities, including:
• Loss of Community Identity: These structures often serve as focal points within their neighborhoods, symbolizing shared values, traditions, and community cohesion. Their demolition can erode the sense of identity and belonging among residents.
• Potential for Urban Blight: Vacant lots resulting from demolished buildings can become magnets for illegal dumping, vandalism, and other forms of urban blight. This can deteriorate the quality of life in the neighborhood and deter potential investment and development.
The moratorium on demolition permits aims to safeguard not only the cultural and architectural heritage of Toledo but also the social and economic well-being of its neighborhoods. It provides an opportunity for thorough evaluation and community engagement to explore alternative strategies for preserving and/or repurposing buildings of historical community importance.
Toledo City Council acknowledges the need to protect these structures from demolition. The moratorium will provide the city with time to assess the historical value of these structures, explore preservation or alternative use strategies, if any, and engage with stakeholders.
NOW, THEREFORE, Be it ordained by the Council of the City of Toledo:
SECTION 1. In recognition of the significance of buildings of historical community importance to the City of Toledo, this Council establishes a one-year moratorium on the issuance of demolition permits for such buildings within the city limits. This moratorium shall be effective immediately upon passage and shall remain in effect until July 17, 2025, or until a comprehensive study evaluating the potential for preservation or alternative use can be completed, whichever comes first.
SECTION 2. Toledo City Council hereby directs the Toledo City Plan Commission to conduct a comprehensive study of the buildings of historical community importance within the city limits. This study shall include an assessment of the architectural, historical, and cultural significance of these structures, as well as an analysis of their current condition and the feasibility of preservation or rehabilitation. Furthermore, the Plan Commission is tasked with proposing potential programs for revitalization of these structures, including but not limited to zoning regulations or amendments, financial incentives, and community engagement initiatives. Upon completion of the study, the Plan Commission shall present its findings and recommendations to the City Council for review and consideration. This initiative aims to ensure the long-term preservation of Toledo's architectural, cultural and historical heritage and foster sustainable development practices that respect the city's community identity.
SECTION 3. It is found and determined that all formal actions of this Council concerning and relating to the passage of this Ordinance were passed in an open meeting of this Council, and that all deliberations of this Council and any of its committees that resulted in such formal action were in meetings open to the public, in compliance with all legal requirements.
SECTION 4. This Ordinance is hereby declared to be an emergency measure and shall be in force and effect from and after its passage. The reason for the emergency lies in the immediate need to protect buildings of historical community importance from demolition, pending the completion of a comprehensive study to determine the feasibility of preservation or rehabilitation of these structures.
Vote on emergency clause: yeas 11, nays 0.
Passed: July 17, 2024, as an emergency measure: yeas 11, nays 0.
Attest:
Julie A. Gibbons Carrie Hartman
Clerk of Council President of Council
Approved: July 17, 2024
Wade Kapszukiewicz
Mayor