Hearing set on Lasher Hall historic designation after museum supporters present feasibility plan

The Planning and Development Committee moved Monday to schedule a public hearing and advance a proposal to designate Lasher Hall as a city historic landmark.

Tim Anderson, chair of the Historic Preservation Commission, told the committee that commission research (prepared largely by member Bill Walker) supports designation under criteria A, B, D and G of Athens City Code §4511. Anderson said representatives of Paper Print Book, an experiential museum proposal, asked the commission to consider Lasher Hall for landmark status.

Don Adlida, a founder of the proposed museum, described a three-floor plan: a ground-floor museum and papermaking area, a second-floor exhibition and workshop space, and a top floor to be leased to artists to generate revenue. He said the group is a 501(c)(3), has a feasibility committee, equipment proofs of concept and collaborative plans with Alden Library.

Mayor Patterson said he supports designating the building, calling it a local architectural “gem” and noting its connections to the city’s printing history. Committee members said designation could aid grant-seeking and other funding.

The committee confirmed a public hearing and indicated the designation would follow the city’s three-reading ordinance process; the earliest possible hearing date was identified as June 16 during the council’s regular session. Clerical and scheduling steps were assigned to the clerk’s office.

What’s next: The committee advanced the matter toward first reading and public hearing. If the council follows the normal three-reading process, the designation would return to full council after the public hearing for further readings and final action.