Allegany County committee weighs options for historic Saint Philip’s Episcopal Church in Belmont

Allegany County’s Public Works Committee debated the future of Saint Philip’s Episcopal Church in Belmont during its Feb. 4 meeting, with members weighing options that include issuing a request for proposals, selling with use restrictions, or demolishing the structure.

Chair Kevin Fred Dominic opened discussion about soliciting proposals and said the county has an appraisal and would require a proposal that explains intended reuse and protections for the site. Committee members repeatedly urged preservation where feasible, citing the church’s role in the village character and historic connections to local families.

Superintendent Windes provided background on the county’s earlier plans and the property’s constraints. He said the parcel is roughly 0.3 acres and noted utilities and a sidewalk that the county would likely retain: “The parcel itself does not have any parking,” Windes said, and he confirmed existing sewer and water lines run between the church and adjacent structures. Windes also said the county has asbestos to address and estimated an in-house demolition and debris removal cost at about $20,000; another legislator later estimated the total demolition cost at about $30,000.

Members stressed the need for a condition assessment and a formal plan before any disposition. Several recommended issuing an RFP that would require prospective buyers or partners to state intended uses, sustainability plans and commitments to preserve neighborhood character. The historian currently uses the building part-time while conducting an inventory of items stored there; committee members said the inventory must be housed elsewhere before any major change.

Committee members agreed to move cautiously: document building condition, clarify parking and code concerns, complete the historian’s inventory, and draft an RFP (if the county elects to seek buyers or partners). No final sale or demolition decision was made at the meeting; the committee voted to proceed to an executive session for other matters at the end of the agenda.