City‑backed plan to demolish century‑old warehouse at 115 S. 2nd advances; board asks city to attempt salvage

The Historic District Council on Wednesday approved final demolition of a century‑old warehouse at 115 South 2nd Street after staff concluded the structure is non‑contributing and presented documentation from the Florida Division of Historical Resources.

Mia Southerner, the HCC staff liaison, told members that Sanborn map research and a master site file show the building likely dates to about 1925 and that the Division of Historical Resources recorded a photo‑file for the property. Southerner said staff found the structure lacks unique architectural features and determined removal "would not diminish the functionality or aesthetic of the downtown or the CRA."

Jeremiah Glisson, deputy city manager, said the city acquired the parcel to remove blight and cited restricted funding (general government administrative impact fees) that the commission targeted for expansion of general government services. He said options for future uses include increased parking or a site for a new city hall and that the city will solicit bids that include contractor site visits to determine salvageability.

Board members focused on the possibility of salvaging historic fabric. Vice Chair (transcript label 6) and others described identifiable items—unpainted heart‑pine beadboard and large heart‑pine columns—that city staff and the board thought could be reclaimed. City staff said salvage would require owner consent and likely be handled through the bid process.

A motion to approve final demolition with a condition requesting the city make a best effort to salvage hard‑pine beadboard and load‑bearing columns passed unanimously on roll call.

The board’s action authorizes demolition under the Community Redevelopment Area rules; staff will include salvage requests in bid specifications but noted the salvage is a request, not a condition that can be enforced without owner consent.