The commission highlighted the importance of Miller Middle School, emphasizing its historical role during the civil rights era as the first desegregated school in the area. This aspect of the school resonated deeply with attendees, with some sharing personal anecdotes that underlined its importance to the community. The dissolution of the Building Restoration Committee earlier in the year led to the establishment of BRC 2.0, an independent body now focused on coordinating efforts with the Putnam County Commission and the Putnam School District. A meeting has been tentatively scheduled for March to discuss the potential county takeover of the school, driven by ongoing interest from the county.

The commission underscored the significance of preserving Miller Middle School, not only for its historical value but as a potential key asset for future community endeavors. One participant noted that seldom has the survey team encountered a historic property as vital to the community’s future as the Miller Middle School complex. The possibility of adaptive reuse of the school was emphasized as a critical undertaking that the community should consider seriously.

Another focal point of the meeting was the ongoing historical markers project, which aims to enhance community awareness of Crescent City’s historical sites. The project, largely funded by the Fland Peninsula Historical Society, comes with a budget of approximately $3,000 per marker. The commission is targeting a six-month completion timeline, with the unveiling planned to coincide with National Historic Preservation Month next May. The project has garnered community interest, with residents frequently stopping to read the newly installed markers.

The commission also delved into the topic of historical property nominations, emphasizing the importance of compiling a comprehensive list of Crescent City’s significant historical properties. This list is intended to prioritize properties based on their historical importance and potential vulnerability. The discussion revealed some debate over whether to develop this list independently or to leverage existing surveys. One member reminded the group that an extensive survey of over 350 structures, available as a PDF on the Fland Peninsula Historical Society’s website, already exists. This survey, conducted before 1975, provides evaluations of historical properties and could serve as a foundation for further preservation efforts.

Discussions included the necessity of better communication and processes surrounding property demolitions, as the current system allows for permits to be issued without the commission’s prior knowledge. This gap in oversight has led to concerns about the rapid pace of demolitions, with historically significant properties sometimes lost within days of permit approval. A new historic preservation ordinance could address this issue by mandating notifications of proposed demolitions and allowing the commission to review applications, providing an opportunity to explore preservation alternatives.

The meeting also touched on various other projects, including updates on the New Moon Lodge and the Union Bethel project. The New Moon Lodge project has established a continuing services contract with RG Architects, focusing on ADA compliance and structural stabilization within a limited budget. The Union Bethel project, facing delays due to inspections and the pandemic, is progressing with plans to address termite issues, promising further advancement once approvals are obtained.

Concerns over the fate of a thrift store near the memorial were addressed, with assurances that there are no current demolition plans, though the building’s future use remains uncertain due to budget constraints.