well detailed. She also stated that any hardships could be worked around. It
will be nice to preserve a piece of St. Francis's history.
Mackenzie Mindel asked staff to describe the Certificate of Appropriateness
process. Staff did. Mackenzie stated that Mayo is a big part of the
neighborhood. They have done an amazing job on maintaining its use.
"Preservation is no achieved through designation alone."
The motion passed 6-0 by voice vote.
Nomination of Emerson Elementary School (Hillview Orthopedic School),
located at 2001 Campbell Rd, to be designated as a Local Historic Landmark.
3.
Staff stated that they felt that the nomination was complete and provided
information to support why it was being nominated. The building is being
nominated under the criteria of its association with events or person(s) who
have made a significant contribution to the history of La Crosse and that it
exemplifies the broad cultural, political, economic, or social history of La
Crosse.
Marcus Zettler, with the Preservation Alliance of La Crosse and nominator of
the building, provided an overview of the building's history. He specifically
stated that the building is more significant for its history and not its
architecture. John Reiman asked what the condition of the building is. Marcus
stated that the exterior of the building was good. The windows are not
original. The openings have been reduced. He has not been inside. Jim
Gallagher stated that the addition seems to be mismatched. Marcus stated that
is fairly typical of additions and that his nomination does state that it does not
contribute to its significance.
Dr, Engel, Superintendent of the La Crosse School District, stated that he was
opposed to the nomination. He stated that the purpose of the school was not a
first of its kind, nor does it retain the physical characteristics associated with
the reason for its designation. Additionally, other Public Works projects in La
Crosse are not designated. He stated that he does not believe it meets the
criteria and submitted a letter to be attached to the legislative file. John
Reiman asked if the plan was to close the school. Dr. Engel stated that are still
working on an analysis of all of their facilities and are unsure at this time. No
plans to close it at this time. John Reiman asked if he could describe the
condition of the building's interior. Dr. Engel stated that he would give a tour
anytime. He then stated that it is suitable for education but outdated. Jim
Gallagher asked why designation would interfere with other uses. Dr. Engel
stated that he felt there were issues with Lincoln Middle School as a result of
its designation. He had concerns that designation would hinder the ability to
explore what other things could occur on this site. Ellie McLoone asked what
other interest there was on the property. Was UWL interested. Dr. Engel stated
that there was interest in the property. Mackenzie Mindel asked for him to
expand on why the history was not unique and its current condition. Dr. Engel
stated that it was not the first of its kind Wisconsin. It only meets the basic
needs for education and does not meet modern needs in design and function.
John Reiman asked if economic concerns were the reason for opposition. Dr.
Engel stated that they want the flexibility to explore all options if it no longer
serves as a public school and that designation limits that. Laura Godden stated
that designation of the school is part of a nationwide trend to preserve them
and that it does meet the criteria. Dr. Engel stated that it is one of hundreds
which does not make it significant. He also added that he has concerns with
the process as it is too random and can happen to quick. Dr. Engel also stated
that designation can hurt its value. Laura Godden stated that their is evidence
