Landmark.
Barbara Kooiman, representing the Preservation Alliance of La Crosse (PAL),
stated that it was nominated as the first and only orthopedic school in La
Crosse. It was also a part of the WPA/PWA New Deal initiative. Building may
even meet the criteria to be listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
Building is intact and the additions were done sympathetically. Mackenzie
Mindel ask her to respond to the statement that the programs are not unique or
first of its kind in La Crosse. Barbara stated that there were others but they
lacked accessibility. Emerson was the first to be built that was 100% dedicated
to children with disabilities. It showed progressive thinking of the School
District at that time. Laura Godden asked if the "Baby Boom" aspects are still
preserved in the building. Barbara stated that she thought they were and that
the School District hired the same architects to design the 2nd floor, and while
it does not have as many, still incorporated many of the New Deal era features.
Laura Godden asked if she new if other schools in the State integrated both
disabled and non-disabled kids. Barbara stated that she did not know.
Dr. Aaron Engel, La Crosse School District Superintendent, stated that he was
opposed to the designation of Emerson Elementary. He stated that he did not
feel that the nomination of the building meets the goals of the HPC as it does
not display its original character and quality since the there have been
additions and alterations that have removed all the significant and functional
features. He also stated that he has concerns with the process for designation
as there is no transparency to the public on what properties are considered
historic. He also stated that designation may divert funds from special needs
students to upkeep the building. Jim Gallgher asked if there were plans for the
building for disabled students. Dr, Engel stated that there were not specific
plans for the building at this time. Jim Gallagher asked why it would hurt
disabled students. Dr. Engel stated that requirements to maintain a historic
building would divert funding for students elsewhere.
John Reiman moved to accept the nomination as submitted. Jim Gallgher
seconded.
John Reiman stated that the history of the school is important to La Crosse,
especially its associated with Polio. The treatment of the most vulnerable,
children, for Polio is important. The fact that the School District of La Crosse
was at the vanguard of this effort is something to celebrate. The building was
also part of the New Deal, a national historic effort. Served as a school for
several generations. The marketability of the building is not an HPC issue. That
is something for the Common Council to determine. He stated that he is in
support of this nomination.
Ellie McLoone stated that there were only about 3 of 11 schools left like this.
One is in La Crosse. She stated that she is worried that UWL will purchase it
and make it a parking lot.
Natalie Heneghan stated that she did not feel that the nomination provided
enough material to meet the criteria as the connections to the New Deal do not
make it significant enough.
Laura Godden stated that WPA projects have changed the landscape of cities.
Maybe that is not enough but the Polio treatment history does bring a lot of
significance to La Crosse.
Eric Garland thanked PAL and thought the nomination was well written. He
stated that he lives in the neighborhood and they held their
