For the Active Rain Community: This will mark the first time I have used one of my contributor's posts as a lead-in.
RuthAnne Tarletz de Molina reports back on the Public Hearing regarding the demolition of the Avenue 50 Studio building:
Item: 131-5 N. Avenue 50 - (Not Listed) DIR-2007-XXXX-CCMP; Returning from 12/12/06; Demolition of ex. bldg., consult w/Fire Dept. on access,egress for fire trucks. Sam Suliman.
After the developers had presented their case for need for demolition of building to comply with the needs of the fire department for access & egress, the public had their chance to speak.
The first to pop up was Robert (Bob) Squires of Carlotta's Passion, another Chicano Arte gallery. He was very eloquent, however, the day (night) really went to Carmela Gomes, President, Highland Park Heritage Trust. She presented the Trust's statement on the matter, speaking against the demolition as, though, the building is not listed explained at the meeting, that this building is of architectural importance to the community and should be considered a Contributing Structure.
Luckily, for all concerned - the Board didn't have to make a decision at the moment - the owner didn't have to face not being able to demolish the building - the community will have a chance for input - hopefully, there can be a compromise as was suggested by both the Board & some of the commenters such as modifying the building plans to accommodate the structure - Gerald Gubatan, Chief Planning Deputy, First Council District (Ed Reyes), was asked to comment.
His bottom line was that the decision should be tabled for 30 days while the parties have a chance to seek a compromise solution. Additional comments, from the Board & others, mentioned studies that were relevant to the issue, but not within the Board's purview. One important study could be an environmental impact one, especially as to traffic issues.
