Fairhope, Alabama
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| Fairhope American Legion reconstruction? |
AMERICAN LEGION POST 199
According to a letter obtained by the Times sent out by post commander Gerry Garcia, a settlement has been reached with insurance over hurricane Sally damages; post 199 members will soon decide the fate of the historic old building at 700 S. Mobile Street (possibly during the August post meeting).
The building was called 'Pine Needles' for many years, after construction in 1912.
Garcia: "The post/repair reconstruction committee is now working on a decision briefing which will go to the executive committee ... and then post membership ... (it) will compare/contrast the options of repairing (with enhancements) the existing main building ... versus replacing it with a new building."
Upgrading to allow the disabled access to upper floors may be a major consideration/expense; the city's building official Eric Cortinas told the Times some sort of wheelchair access or lift will be needed for use the 2nd and 3rd floors, to comply with federal regulations (ADA).
He added he though some sort of grants may be available; donations to the club's capital fund from the public are also being accepted.
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| Built in1912. |
Comments
Why? Because YOU say so? Are you a member? Have you studied the financials? Do you know the needs and vision of the post?
How much money have you committed to preserving this or any other "landmark" in town?
Talk is cheap, and anonymous talk is cheaper.
I hope that the building can be restored to serve the community for generations to come, but I do not presume to know what's best for the Legion, and the Legion owns the property. Neither am I arrogant enough to call upon government to impose my dreams, by force of law, on others.