[2/13/02)

That huge old house we've seen sitting across from Lancaster Downs subdivision for quite some time is no more.  Many local residents were surprised as they returned home yesterday to see the site covered with heavy equipment and the remains of the house laying in a pile of rubble.

The expectation was that the house was being prepped to be moved to another location, which it was.  However, the funding for the move of the structure fell through, despite last minute efforts.  This left demolition as the only alternative as the lot had to be cleared by yesterday to meet deadlines for the new construction in that location.


Another local landmark in the news is the old Cleveland Middle School. 

Approximately 50 concerned citizens met at the Cleveland Volunteer Fire Dept. last night to discuss the possibilities for the facility.  Leading the meeting were  County Commissoners Tom Moore,  J.H. Langdon, and Cookie Pope.  While there was considerable support voiced for keeping the building in the community for historical value, the extraordinary cost of renovating the building may be the deciding factor.  Estimates range as high as $2 million to repurpose the structure and bring it in line with building codes. 

The school was originally constructed in the 1920's and has fallen into more disrepair after sitting empty for several years.  There was some concern expressed that the building was a safety hazard and that steps should be taken to secure it to prevent entry.

Possible uses raised for the building included a library, recreational center and affordable senior citizen housing.  County Commissioner Langdon stated that the county had no purpose itself for the land or building.  In normal circumstances, the property would be made available for sale through an auction process.  It is expected that the next step for the school will be up for consideration at one of the next County Commissioner's meetings.

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