A century-old historic building in Salt Lake City was recently demolished without the necessary permits. The community now grapples with the aftermath as officials investigate violations and consider tougher penalties for such breaches in historic preservation regulations.
(Photo : Building Salt Lake/Fifth Ward Meetinghouse)
Illegal Demolition on Historic Building
On Easter Sunday, Mar. 31, at 740 South 300 West, also referred to as the Fifth Ward Meetinghouse, several sources informed the City that an illegal demolition was occurring. Even though it was included in the National Registry of Historic Places in 1978 and was declared a local historic landmark, the structure was nevertheless subject to unauthorized demolition since the designations did not reportedly provide any protection for the building.
As mentioned, the city issued an immediate stop construction order, according to Blake Thomas, the director of Community and Neighborhoods for Salt Lake City. In a release, Thomas indicated that the City will keep a close eye on the location to ensure that only additional construction is carried out with the necessary permits and inspections. The city staff will reportedly contact the owner to work on a solution for preserving historic buildings under the city's regulations.
On the other hand, the pictures that illustrate the scale of the demolition are evidence that the damage has already been done. The cornerstone is a testament to the building's century-long existence as the historic structure, which dates back to 1910, is now destroyed. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints used to hold gatherings there at one point in time, and most of the people who attended those gatherings were Native American church members. The church eventually sold it, and throughout the years, it went through several different phases.
Kelly Colobella, a resident of the area, reflected on the several phases the location has gone through, including a Tibetan temple, a rock and punk theater known as The Pompadour in the 1990s, and many other things. As a result of the local historic register, it is protected against historic damage. Accordingly, the Historic Landmark Commission of Salt Lake City must approve it before the city can issue a demolition permit.
Also Read: Delhi to Implement Color-Coded Warning System for Construction Sites to Combat Air Pollution
Violations in the Demolition
After the accident, a pile of debris cascaded toward 300 West, and huge holes opened into the former chapel's main chamber, exposing it to the elements and trespassers and threatening its stability. The wreckage contained several stone marks that had been inserted into the foundation of the building by local leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Additionally, there were fragments of a set of side steps that had crumbled and enormous tree trunks that had been twisted.
As per the city officials, the unapproved demolition violated at least three local zoning rules. These ordinances include working without permission, failing to secure clearance to knock down a historic structure, and demolishing without acquiring an air quality plan. Each of these violations carries an initial fine of $100.
They stated that fines could be increased proportionally to the value of prospective development on the property. The City may also require the owner to remediate any damage. Moreover, on Tuesday, Apr. 2, the City Council will examine a new rule that would increase the penalties for unauthorized building and demolition in historic zones. This development modifies the agenda that was previously planned for the meeting.
Related Article: 5 Essential Building Laws to Consider Before New House Construction
