Historic District proposal approved
Written by Josh Beavers
Tuesday, 30 October 2007
The city council took steps last night to assist residents in their efforts to protect the historic integrity of the Minden Historic District.
The council unanimously approved an ordinance that sets aesthetic standards on the district and at the same time creates a commission to make decisions similar to those faced by homeowner associations found in subdivisions such as Ridgewood and Woodhaven.
The ordinance is a lengthy document that addresses a great number of areas. Everything from landscaping to outbuildings to garages and alterations are covered in the proposal. It will go into effect in 30 days.
“I am so excited that after 16 years of waiting the city of Minden has made the final steps to recognize and protect the Historic Residential District,” said Schelley Brown, chair of the Minden Residential Historic Preservation Study Committee. “It means that for many years to come people will be able to step back in time while looking at a beautiful, well maintained, harmonious neighborhood when they drive through here.
"But it's not over," she added.
What Brown means is that the council's action does not eliminate the possibility of a Walgreens locating in the district.
Time and again last night, Minden citizens came forward from an overflow crowd to speak to the council during a passionate yet civil public hearing. And almost every time during the two-hour session, the subject of Walgreens coming to the corner of Elm Street and Homer Road was mentioned.
Minden Mayor Bill Robertson quickly interrupted each person who mentioned commercial development.
"The zoning issue and this ordinance are two separate things," the mayor repeated.
Zoning will come up at the December meeting of the council when homeowners Craig and Mona Farley will come before the community governing board and ask that their property, 101 Homer Road, be rezoned to make way for the drugstore chain.
"We feel like our zoning issue caused this ordinance," Mona Farley said after the meeting. "We feel this ordinance is a knee jerk reaction to Walgreens."
The Farleys, as well as two other couples who reside in the district, asked that their properties be excluded from last night's proposal.
Dr. Timothy Talbert was one of those who filed for an exemption.
"I don't like the extra step of someone reviewing and deciding what is appropriate to do with my home. The home I pay for," the Minden physician told the council.
Talbert, a Natchitoches native, voiced concern over modeling a residential proposal after that city. He said he has friends and family who have to live in the "confines" of the Natchitoches historic district and their experiences are not pleasant.
"I have friends on both sides of this," he said. "I just think people have rushed ahead trying to stop something without putting the appropriate thought into it. I am cautious about someone walking onto my property and telling me what is best."
Bill Green, a historic district resident and a crafter of the proposal, said the new process is nothing more than an advisory committee to lend a hand to the homeowners.
"It's not people who will walk around with a club and whack you on the head," he said.
Brown said she feels the majority of the district can live with the proposal as all existing homes are grandfathered in. That was affirmed by City Inspector Brent Cooley, who also said the proposal only applies to the exterior of homes, not the interior. The ordinance also places no restrictions on selling property.
So what comes next now that the council has approved the ordinance?
On Nov. 15, the Farleys and other property owners will go before the Minden Regional Planning Commission to request a zoning variance. The request asks that the properties be changed from R-2 (Single Family Residential) to B-4 (Highway Commercial).
Following that meeting, the property owners will appear before the city council during the board's December meeting to learn the fate of the Walgreens push.
Both sides will be ready.
"So many historic areas disappear in the name of progress," said Jackie Lewis, a proponent of the new ordinance. "What do you say this time we give progress the boot and stand up for history?""We have a request in place and are going to take the appropriate steps," countered Farley attorney Whitney Pesnell. "We'll just see what happens."
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Shreveport Times Coverage
Historic district gets nod from Minden City CouncilOctober 30, 2007
By Vickie WelbornVwelborn@gannett.com
MINDEN — Support for a recognized historic residential district was mixed with opposition Monday night but it did not deter the unanimous approval by the Minden City Council meeting during a special session.The vote means the city's district of approximately 71 buildings must now adhere to specific guidelines when it comes time for construction, demolition or remodeling projects, and even details such as paint colors and landscaping schemes. And the same law creates a mayor-appointed five-member commission that will govern the district.
Minden's historic district has been listed with the National Register of Historic Places since 1992, but it lacked the necessary teeth to enforce the suggested restrictions or the governing authority to carry them out.More than 100 Minden residents filled the chamber meeting room. While the issue has been an emotional one, feelings were kept in check as Mayor Bill Robertson directed all speakers to limit their comments to the issue at hand, and not partner it with a pending rezoning request from property owners Mona and Craig Farley. That separate but somewhat linked issue will be up for discussion before the Minden Regional Planning Commission on Nov. 15.Unlike past meetings where the Farley's have been the only ones speaking against the historic district ordinance, several of their neighbors joined them Monday night in opposing the restrictions, but not the district itself.Attorney Whitney Pesnell, who represented the Farleys, noted that his clients and two other property owners asked to be exempted from the district.Tim Talbert, a Broadway Street resident originally from Natchitoches, was one who joined the Farleys in seeking exclusion. Talbert said the homeowner should be able to make his own decisions on his property. He doesn't feel he should have to seek approval to make changes to his home."I don't like the extra step to ask somebody else on what to do with my home," Talbert said.Gloria Sullivan, a Minden native who had owned her home for seven years, agreed. "We really don't need a lot of guidelines to take care of our home or to paint our home or who to sell it to."Interior changes to homes in the residential district and sales of the property are not affected by the ordinance, said building inspector Brent Cooley to a question raised by Councilman Benny Gray.Councilman Rodney Seamster questioned legalities of the ordinance, including a provision that allows the district commission to file suit against property owners for violation of the restrictions.Councilwoman Magaline Quarles said the historic district commission is not meant to be a dictatorship but a manner in which to "maintain what you have or to be upgraded."What's in existence today would be grandfathered in. No one will go out forcing anyone to make changes, Cooley said.Schelley Brown, who chaired a committee tasked with studying the pros and cons of the district, said approximately 98 percent living within its boundaries were supportive. A main concern of the residents of the stately homes was commercial encroachment, which many fear was steadily endangering the integrity of the historical structures.Commercial structures are prohibited from the district; however, new businesses such as bed and breakfast establishments or a tea room are acceptable."When you buy a home in a residential district you expect it to stay residential," Brown said.Brown ventured into concerns about plans for a Walgreens at the corner of Homer Road and Elm Street, which is in the district, but Robertson directed Brown and others to limit comments to the historic district ordinance, and not a pending rezoning request from Walgreens."It's hard to separate the two," Brown said.Jackie Lewis lives in a nearly 100-year-old home and believes the historic district ordinance should be approved without exemption. She pointed out other important sites that have been torn down in the name of progress.She encouraged giving "progress the boot" and standing up for history.Rose Byles values the historic district but does not believe it's the city's only asset.Bill Green said the historic district regulations are no different from subdivision homeowners association. He likens the district commission as an advisory board that would work with homeowners on any problems they would have.Debbie Gibson sought a compromise. She cautioned against a "knee jerk" reaction, and said the city will continue to grow if everyone's concerns are considered, whether their roots in Minden are shallow or deep.Said historic district property owner Dawn Pearson: "I don't approve of someone telling me what I can or can't do. Unless you are going to foot the bill you have no say."The Farleys have said previously they are entertaining the Walgreens proposal because of a growing concern about the condition of their 104-year-old home, which is in dire need of costly repairs. Walgreens has agreed to cover cost of moving the Farley's house, while at the same time creating a memorial park that would commemorate a black Civil War regiment with ties to the land. The park, proposed to be about 100-by-300 feet, would sit at the corner of Homer Road and Elm Street, while the Walgreens and an unnamed coffee house, both built in a southern colonial style, would sit further back on the lot.The new law goes into effect in 30 days.©The TimesOctober 30, 2007
By Vickie WelbornVwelborn@gannett.com
MINDEN — Support for a recognized historic residential district was mixed with opposition Monday night but it did not deter the unanimous approval by the Minden City Council meeting during a special session.The vote means the city's district of approximately 71 buildings must now adhere to specific guidelines when it comes time for construction, demolition or remodeling projects, and even details such as paint colors and landscaping schemes. And the same law creates a mayor-appointed five-member commission that will govern the district.
Minden's historic district has been listed with the National Register of Historic Places since 1992, but it lacked the necessary teeth to enforce the suggested restrictions or the governing authority to carry them out.More than 100 Minden residents filled the chamber meeting room. While the issue has been an emotional one, feelings were kept in check as Mayor Bill Robertson directed all speakers to limit their comments to the issue at hand, and not partner it with a pending rezoning request from property owners Mona and Craig Farley. That separate but somewhat linked issue will be up for discussion before the Minden Regional Planning Commission on Nov. 15.Unlike past meetings where the Farley's have been the only ones speaking against the historic district ordinance, several of their neighbors joined them Monday night in opposing the restrictions, but not the district itself.Attorney Whitney Pesnell, who represented the Farleys, noted that his clients and two other property owners asked to be exempted from the district.Tim Talbert, a Broadway Street resident originally from Natchitoches, was one who joined the Farleys in seeking exclusion. Talbert said the homeowner should be able to make his own decisions on his property. He doesn't feel he should have to seek approval to make changes to his home."I don't like the extra step to ask somebody else on what to do with my home," Talbert said.Gloria Sullivan, a Minden native who had owned her home for seven years, agreed. "We really don't need a lot of guidelines to take care of our home or to paint our home or who to sell it to."Interior changes to homes in the residential district and sales of the property are not affected by the ordinance, said building inspector Brent Cooley to a question raised by Councilman Benny Gray.Councilman Rodney Seamster questioned legalities of the ordinance, including a provision that allows the district commission to file suit against property owners for violation of the restrictions.Councilwoman Magaline Quarles said the historic district commission is not meant to be a dictatorship but a manner in which to "maintain what you have or to be upgraded."What's in existence today would be grandfathered in. No one will go out forcing anyone to make changes, Cooley said.Schelley Brown, who chaired a committee tasked with studying the pros and cons of the district, said approximately 98 percent living within its boundaries were supportive. A main concern of the residents of the stately homes was commercial encroachment, which many fear was steadily endangering the integrity of the historical structures.Commercial structures are prohibited from the district; however, new businesses such as bed and breakfast establishments or a tea room are acceptable."When you buy a home in a residential district you expect it to stay residential," Brown said.Brown ventured into concerns about plans for a Walgreens at the corner of Homer Road and Elm Street, which is in the district, but Robertson directed Brown and others to limit comments to the historic district ordinance, and not a pending rezoning request from Walgreens."It's hard to separate the two," Brown said.Jackie Lewis lives in a nearly 100-year-old home and believes the historic district ordinance should be approved without exemption. She pointed out other important sites that have been torn down in the name of progress.She encouraged giving "progress the boot" and standing up for history.Rose Byles values the historic district but does not believe it's the city's only asset.Bill Green said the historic district regulations are no different from subdivision homeowners association. He likens the district commission as an advisory board that would work with homeowners on any problems they would have.Debbie Gibson sought a compromise. She cautioned against a "knee jerk" reaction, and said the city will continue to grow if everyone's concerns are considered, whether their roots in Minden are shallow or deep.Said historic district property owner Dawn Pearson: "I don't approve of someone telling me what I can or can't do. Unless you are going to foot the bill you have no say."The Farleys have said previously they are entertaining the Walgreens proposal because of a growing concern about the condition of their 104-year-old home, which is in dire need of costly repairs. Walgreens has agreed to cover cost of moving the Farley's house, while at the same time creating a memorial park that would commemorate a black Civil War regiment with ties to the land. The park, proposed to be about 100-by-300 feet, would sit at the corner of Homer Road and Elm Street, while the Walgreens and an unnamed coffee house, both built in a southern colonial style, would sit further back on the lot.The new law goes into effect in 30 days.©The TimesOctober 30, 2007
Friday, October 26, 2007
BIG Meeting
THE big meeting will be on Monday night, October the 29th at 7pm, and will be held in City Courtroom A. We'll see you guys there!
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Meetings
The most important meeting that you will need to attend is going to be held at the Civic Center, City Courtroom A, on Monday night at 7:00 pm. This meeting is an open forum for the public to learn more about the proposed Historic Residential District City Ordinances and possible Historic Residential District Commission. The City Council will vote IMMEDIATELY when the meeting has concluded, as they will be in a special session. Call Schelley at 423-0192, Bill Green at 377-5004 or Jackie at 382-8979 for more information.
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
Saturday, September 22, 2007
INFORMATIVE LINKS
I feel that it is important at this time to once again post links to other towns that have had problems with commercialization in their historic districts. The ordinance that the city council will vote on October 1st will help us significantly in our fight to keep commercialization out of the historic residential district. This ordinance is about keeping Minden's Residential Historic District the beautiful, nostalgic, peaceful and RESIDENTIAL district that it is currently. Take a few moments to drive through the historic residential district this weekend and notice the signs that homeowners have placed up in support of this ordinance. We have nothing to hide. If there is one thing that we are, it's united. The signs, the ordinance and the commission are all proof that we take the issue of protecting our historic residential district very seriously.
Many years ago, when my husband and I were still both in the Air Force, we realized that we wanted, NEEDED, a place to call home. Shaun is from Indiana, so we looked at moving to a number of small towns all over the country. When we fell in love with Minden, it wasn't because of the commercial businesses located here. Show me someone who falls in love with a town because it has a Walgreens or any other big-box-discount store and I'll show you someone who needs therapy. That's not to say that the residents of the historic district don't welcome business to our hometown with open arms: we do want them to come here. But we do NOT welcome them open-armed into our HISTORIC RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT.
Americans, as a whole, tend to take things for granted. When we moved to this beautiful little historic town, it was because we could see that it was a safe place to raise our children and spend the rest of our lives. When we were shopping for our home, we knew that it would be THE home for us. Our 1908 beauty has creaky floors, leaky windows and peeling paint. But we overlook these, and many other problems that go along with owning an older home, because we realize that we are our home's guardians. We are charged with protecting the home that generation after generation of Mindenites were raised in, and we consider this both an honor and a priviledge. That we don't take for granted.
You see, in the historic residential district we have something uniquely special. We can take a stroll around the block and stop to chat with our neighbors as they work in their flowerbeds. We can look out our windows on any given Saturday and see brides having their portaits made in Academy Park. There is a reason why people have picnic lunches by The Fitzgerald House, and why the Mardi Gras parade starts at the library, and that reason is not because Webster Parish Citizens treasure commercialization.
If you are sincerely concerned about why we want this ordinance to pass, look at the following websites. They will show you that the rezoning, removal and destruction of our historic districts is a nationwide epidemic. We are very lucky that the residents of our historic district are enlightened enough to keep this from happening in our community, but other towns have not been so lucky.
If you would like a copy of the ordinance in advance, please contact city hall or Bill Green at 377-5004.
Thanks so much for all of your support!
Jackie Lewis
http://www.nationaltrust.org/issues/chain_drugstores/
http://www.nationaltrust.org/issues/chain_drugstores/drugstores_success_stories.html
http://www.nationaltrust.org/magazine/archives/arc_news/120704.htm
http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=17090917&BRD=1653&PAG=461&dept_id=12717&rfi=6
http://www.examiner.com/a-468611~Historic_Chinese_eatery_to_become_a_Walgreens.html
http://www.tiftongazette.com/local/local_story_178221105.html/resources_printstory
http://www.cincinnati-oh.gov/cdap/downloads/cdap_pdf14072.pdf
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/c/a/2002/08/01/MN133594.DTL&type=printable
http://www.eurekawebs.com/cityhall/commdevp/docs/City_PRES_PLAN_final-text.pdf
http://www.nationaltrust.org/issues/downloads/drugstore_rockland_ma.pdf
http://www.northside.net/nba/pdf/NBAmeetingWalgreens060605.pdf
http://www.preservationdirectory.com/HistoricalPreservation/Home.aspx
http://www.jsonline.com/story/index.aspx?id=136614&format=print
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2002/11/25/BA215296.DTL
http://www.metafilter.com/comments.mefi/33664
http://www.neighborhoodlink.com/org/clubextra.html?nclubid=888222976&nid=337570030
http://www.nationaltrust.org/magazine/archives/arc_news/120704.htm
http://www.timesreporter.com/topFive.php?vote=2&Headline=Drug+stores+are+great%3B+so+are+historic+neighborhoods&ID=55465&Category=6
http://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/320808930?ltl=1177742960
http://www.tiftongazette.com/local/local_story_178221105.html
http://www.tiftongazette.com/local/local_story_143223536.html
http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/local/97758_walgreens29.shtml
http://www.historicrockland.org/walgreens_development_plan_targe.htm
http://www.savethecumberland.org/what.htm
http://www.baltimoresun.com/business/chi-030113landmarks1,0,3462980.story?page=6&?track=sto-relcon
http://sg.answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20070310102500AALzs1C
Many years ago, when my husband and I were still both in the Air Force, we realized that we wanted, NEEDED, a place to call home. Shaun is from Indiana, so we looked at moving to a number of small towns all over the country. When we fell in love with Minden, it wasn't because of the commercial businesses located here. Show me someone who falls in love with a town because it has a Walgreens or any other big-box-discount store and I'll show you someone who needs therapy. That's not to say that the residents of the historic district don't welcome business to our hometown with open arms: we do want them to come here. But we do NOT welcome them open-armed into our HISTORIC RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT.
Americans, as a whole, tend to take things for granted. When we moved to this beautiful little historic town, it was because we could see that it was a safe place to raise our children and spend the rest of our lives. When we were shopping for our home, we knew that it would be THE home for us. Our 1908 beauty has creaky floors, leaky windows and peeling paint. But we overlook these, and many other problems that go along with owning an older home, because we realize that we are our home's guardians. We are charged with protecting the home that generation after generation of Mindenites were raised in, and we consider this both an honor and a priviledge. That we don't take for granted.
You see, in the historic residential district we have something uniquely special. We can take a stroll around the block and stop to chat with our neighbors as they work in their flowerbeds. We can look out our windows on any given Saturday and see brides having their portaits made in Academy Park. There is a reason why people have picnic lunches by The Fitzgerald House, and why the Mardi Gras parade starts at the library, and that reason is not because Webster Parish Citizens treasure commercialization.
If you are sincerely concerned about why we want this ordinance to pass, look at the following websites. They will show you that the rezoning, removal and destruction of our historic districts is a nationwide epidemic. We are very lucky that the residents of our historic district are enlightened enough to keep this from happening in our community, but other towns have not been so lucky.
If you would like a copy of the ordinance in advance, please contact city hall or Bill Green at 377-5004.
Thanks so much for all of your support!
Jackie Lewis
http://www.nationaltrust.org/issues/chain_drugstores/
http://www.nationaltrust.org/issues/chain_drugstores/drugstores_success_stories.html
http://www.nationaltrust.org/magazine/archives/arc_news/120704.htm
http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=17090917&BRD=1653&PAG=461&dept_id=12717&rfi=6
http://www.examiner.com/a-468611~Historic_Chinese_eatery_to_become_a_Walgreens.html
http://www.tiftongazette.com/local/local_story_178221105.html/resources_printstory
http://www.cincinnati-oh.gov/cdap/downloads/cdap_pdf14072.pdf
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/c/a/2002/08/01/MN133594.DTL&type=printable
http://www.eurekawebs.com/cityhall/commdevp/docs/City_PRES_PLAN_final-text.pdf
http://www.nationaltrust.org/issues/downloads/drugstore_rockland_ma.pdf
http://www.northside.net/nba/pdf/NBAmeetingWalgreens060605.pdf
http://www.preservationdirectory.com/HistoricalPreservation/Home.aspx
http://www.jsonline.com/story/index.aspx?id=136614&format=print
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2002/11/25/BA215296.DTL
http://www.metafilter.com/comments.mefi/33664
http://www.neighborhoodlink.com/org/clubextra.html?nclubid=888222976&nid=337570030
http://www.nationaltrust.org/magazine/archives/arc_news/120704.htm
http://www.timesreporter.com/topFive.php?vote=2&Headline=Drug+stores+are+great%3B+so+are+historic+neighborhoods&ID=55465&Category=6
http://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/320808930?ltl=1177742960
http://www.tiftongazette.com/local/local_story_178221105.html
http://www.tiftongazette.com/local/local_story_143223536.html
http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/local/97758_walgreens29.shtml
http://www.historicrockland.org/walgreens_development_plan_targe.htm
http://www.savethecumberland.org/what.htm
http://www.baltimoresun.com/business/chi-030113landmarks1,0,3462980.story?page=6&?track=sto-relcon
http://sg.answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20070310102500AALzs1C
Friday, September 21, 2007
PETITION SIGNING
Hi everyone! Bill Green will be in his front yard this afternoon (21 September 2007 starting at 2:00 pm) with the petition. If you haven't had the chance to sign it, please stop by! His home is in front of Academy Park, located on East and West Street. There should be plenty of signs to point the way, but if you can't find it you can call me for directions!
Jackie
Jackie
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
IMPORTANT CITY COUNCIL MEETING
There is a VERY IMPORTANT city council meeting on Monday, October 1st, 2007, at which time the city council will vote on the proposed Minden Historic Residential District Ordinance. It is EXTREMELY important that we all make a grand showing in support of this ordinance.
For more information, you may call Bill Green at 377-5004 or Schelley Brown at 423-0192. Please make sure that you have signed both the online and handheld petitions! These are available at Concepts Beauty Salon on Homer Road, and by calling Schelley or Bill.
Please call your city councilman and let them know about your opinion on this matter.
Also, there is a Historic Residential District Meeting tonight, Tuesday, September 18th at 6:30 pm at the home of Billie Jean and Bill Green, 311 East and West Street. Please attend this meeting for more information.
In addition, if you would like a "Help Save Minden's Historic District" sign for your yard, contact Bill Green at 377-5004.
We really appreciate all of your help!
For more information, you may call Bill Green at 377-5004 or Schelley Brown at 423-0192. Please make sure that you have signed both the online and handheld petitions! These are available at Concepts Beauty Salon on Homer Road, and by calling Schelley or Bill.
Please call your city councilman and let them know about your opinion on this matter.
Also, there is a Historic Residential District Meeting tonight, Tuesday, September 18th at 6:30 pm at the home of Billie Jean and Bill Green, 311 East and West Street. Please attend this meeting for more information.
In addition, if you would like a "Help Save Minden's Historic District" sign for your yard, contact Bill Green at 377-5004.
We really appreciate all of your help!
Historic District Residents
Dear Historic District Resident and Home Owner,
Did you know that your home is listed on the National Register of Historic Places? In 1992 this area was listed with the National Parks Service as a valuable historic site in Louisiana. This means that you can place a historic marker on your home without all the extra paperwork required by others not in this defined area, if you are listed as a contributing element home.
As many of you know our historic district is one of our most valuable assets for not only us as home owners but for our community as a whole. Most of you decided to live in this area because of your love for this type of historic home and many of you have had these homes in your family for over 100 years. Believe it or not this is one of the most highly sought home areas in the city. These homes have been a crucial part of the fabric of Minden for nearly a century and for some over a century.
We have been faced over the last few years with some harsh realities. The reality is our historic area is in danger of being placed on the endangered species list. You are all aware of big business wanting to push commercial buildings and development on our corners. We must protect our homes and our heritage. By allowing big business to take over we will slowly erode a sacred area of Minden. This part of town is not only important to you the home owner but is equally important to others. The fact that others in Minden care has been made apparent with expressed concern and the many petition signatures.
Over the last few months, I as well as others in the district have been hard at work for you and your home values. We have made trips to Natchitoches, Louisiana and El Dorado, Arkansas as well as other cities to meet with the city officials to discuss how to save our area. It has taken Natchitoches some thirty years to get where they are today. It can only take one day to destroy 100+ years of history. We have researched and corresponded with the National Trust for Historic Preservation. We have searched out other historic towns and cities web sites and looked at studies on historic areas. We want to preserve and protect your home and investment to the best of our ability.
We have worked with Mayor Bill Robertson and Judy Talley Thompson on this issue. We have been involved with a City Council workshop to provide you with the best solution to preserve and protect our homes and our historic district. The enclosed ordnance is something we have worked many hours on. We have worked very hard to come up with something that all of us can live with; we hope you will be pleased with this and we also hope to have your support in this issue. This is a very lenient ordnance compared to other cities and towns. You may not like every point in this ordnance but please remember it is not just about you, we all need to remember the real reason behind this! We are not trying to force an issue on anyone but if this ordnance in not passed we might as well give up on preserving our district. This will mean that the corporate endeavors of some will happen maybe not this year but soon. I personally want this to pass. This is a safeguard for us to a point.
It is a documented fact that a preserved historic residential area increases home values. This ordnance will make everyone accountable for the condition of their homes and will insure that the district will remain harmonious within itself and the surrounding homes. It doesn’t mean you can’t paint your house a color other than white. This means that your neighbor can not paint their home black with orange shutters unless the type home that they own is historical correct using those colors. It also lets big business and cooperate America know up front how the town feels about intrusion in this area. It means that the historic beauty will be kept for all to appreciate for many years to come. Guidelines from other cities will be used to help you with your questions. We take this very seriously as you should. Remember the main reason for all of this is to preserve and protect our homes and our district from those that don’t value or respect this area or its rich history and beauty.
We need your support when this is placed on the agenda for the city council meeting. The council needs to know that we want to save our district and we are opposed to big business taking our corners and lowering our property values. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to call or email me about this matter. We hope to have this placed on the agenda at the next called meeting of the Minden City Council. We will try to mail out reminder cards when this issue is up for a vote, if we have enough notice. This meeting will be posted at City Hall before the meeting is held.
Sincerely,
Schelley Brown
President of Minden Historic Residential District Association
318-423-0192
318-371-2913
iluvoldcars@yahoo.com
Did you know that your home is listed on the National Register of Historic Places? In 1992 this area was listed with the National Parks Service as a valuable historic site in Louisiana. This means that you can place a historic marker on your home without all the extra paperwork required by others not in this defined area, if you are listed as a contributing element home.
As many of you know our historic district is one of our most valuable assets for not only us as home owners but for our community as a whole. Most of you decided to live in this area because of your love for this type of historic home and many of you have had these homes in your family for over 100 years. Believe it or not this is one of the most highly sought home areas in the city. These homes have been a crucial part of the fabric of Minden for nearly a century and for some over a century.
We have been faced over the last few years with some harsh realities. The reality is our historic area is in danger of being placed on the endangered species list. You are all aware of big business wanting to push commercial buildings and development on our corners. We must protect our homes and our heritage. By allowing big business to take over we will slowly erode a sacred area of Minden. This part of town is not only important to you the home owner but is equally important to others. The fact that others in Minden care has been made apparent with expressed concern and the many petition signatures.
Over the last few months, I as well as others in the district have been hard at work for you and your home values. We have made trips to Natchitoches, Louisiana and El Dorado, Arkansas as well as other cities to meet with the city officials to discuss how to save our area. It has taken Natchitoches some thirty years to get where they are today. It can only take one day to destroy 100+ years of history. We have researched and corresponded with the National Trust for Historic Preservation. We have searched out other historic towns and cities web sites and looked at studies on historic areas. We want to preserve and protect your home and investment to the best of our ability.
We have worked with Mayor Bill Robertson and Judy Talley Thompson on this issue. We have been involved with a City Council workshop to provide you with the best solution to preserve and protect our homes and our historic district. The enclosed ordnance is something we have worked many hours on. We have worked very hard to come up with something that all of us can live with; we hope you will be pleased with this and we also hope to have your support in this issue. This is a very lenient ordnance compared to other cities and towns. You may not like every point in this ordnance but please remember it is not just about you, we all need to remember the real reason behind this! We are not trying to force an issue on anyone but if this ordnance in not passed we might as well give up on preserving our district. This will mean that the corporate endeavors of some will happen maybe not this year but soon. I personally want this to pass. This is a safeguard for us to a point.
It is a documented fact that a preserved historic residential area increases home values. This ordnance will make everyone accountable for the condition of their homes and will insure that the district will remain harmonious within itself and the surrounding homes. It doesn’t mean you can’t paint your house a color other than white. This means that your neighbor can not paint their home black with orange shutters unless the type home that they own is historical correct using those colors. It also lets big business and cooperate America know up front how the town feels about intrusion in this area. It means that the historic beauty will be kept for all to appreciate for many years to come. Guidelines from other cities will be used to help you with your questions. We take this very seriously as you should. Remember the main reason for all of this is to preserve and protect our homes and our district from those that don’t value or respect this area or its rich history and beauty.
We need your support when this is placed on the agenda for the city council meeting. The council needs to know that we want to save our district and we are opposed to big business taking our corners and lowering our property values. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to call or email me about this matter. We hope to have this placed on the agenda at the next called meeting of the Minden City Council. We will try to mail out reminder cards when this issue is up for a vote, if we have enough notice. This meeting will be posted at City Hall before the meeting is held.
Sincerely,
Schelley Brown
President of Minden Historic Residential District Association
318-423-0192
318-371-2913
iluvoldcars@yahoo.com
Monday, August 6, 2007
WORK BY PROPERTY OWNERS TO REZONE PROPERTY AT THE INTERSECTION OF HOMER ROAD AND ELM STREET AND ADDITIONAL ADJOINING PROPERTY
I would like to begin by stating that this is not a personal thing about any one person, nor is it against another. Our opposition is represented by a member of a group of Minden citizens and property owners who have invested and continue to invest in their property because they love their community and are proud of the Historic District. Many homes are from past generations, with some of our historic district homes being in the same families for the last forty years or more. Some of us are recent owners, but we all have a love of the historic homes and the neighborhood in which we all live.
Zoning laws are established to regulate and separate residential and business districts. We ask your help in protecting our historic residential community, and you can do this by displaying a sign showing your support. Talk to neighbors and friends, call your city council representative and ask that they all support us in our endeavor to protect the historic district. (Note: just ask for their support, do not insist on an answer because ethically they can not do this prior to voting when the time comes.)
Sign one of the Citizens Against Residential Rezoning petitions and show others that you, too are wholeheartedly supporting our effort to put up a united front against the destruction of our historic district.
Attend the Planning Commission Public Hearing when it is called, and express your feelings to the Commission.
Lastly, and most importantly, attend the City Council meeting and when they rule on the zoning change, and stand to speak in opposition to the rezoning!
Thanks for your support and encouragement,
Bill Green
Zoning laws are established to regulate and separate residential and business districts. We ask your help in protecting our historic residential community, and you can do this by displaying a sign showing your support. Talk to neighbors and friends, call your city council representative and ask that they all support us in our endeavor to protect the historic district. (Note: just ask for their support, do not insist on an answer because ethically they can not do this prior to voting when the time comes.)
Sign one of the Citizens Against Residential Rezoning petitions and show others that you, too are wholeheartedly supporting our effort to put up a united front against the destruction of our historic district.
Attend the Planning Commission Public Hearing when it is called, and express your feelings to the Commission.
Lastly, and most importantly, attend the City Council meeting and when they rule on the zoning change, and stand to speak in opposition to the rezoning!
Thanks for your support and encouragement,
Bill Green
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Revitalizing Main Street - Recommendations from the National Trust for Historic Preservation
Hello, all! I ran across this tonight while searching on the internet. I thought that it was interesting, so I decided to share it with everyone.
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The Main Street Four-Point Approach™
to commercial district revitalization
The Main Street Philosophy - Eight Principles of Success
The National Trust Main Street Center's experience in helping communities bring their commercial corridors back to life has shown time and time again that the Main Street Four-Point Approach succeeds. That success is guided by the following eight principles, which set the Main Street methodology apart from other redevelopment strategies. For a Main Street program to be successful, it must whole-heartedly embrace the following time-tested Eight Principles.
Comprehensive: No single focus — lavish public improvements, name-brand business recruitment, or endless promotional events — can revitalize Main Street. For successful, sustainable, long-term revitalization, a comprehensive approach, including activity in each of Main Street's Four Points, is essential.
Incremental: Baby steps come before walking. Successful revitalization programs begin with basic, simple activities that demonstrate that "new things are happening " in the commercial district. As public confidence in the Main Street district grows and participants' understanding of the revitalization process becomes more sophisticated, Main Street is able to tackle increasingly complex problems and more ambitious projects. This incremental change leads to much longer-lasting and dramatic positive change in the Main Street area.
Self-help: No one else will save your Main Street. Local leaders must have the will and desire to mobilize local resources and talent. That means convincing residents and business owners of the rewards they'll reap by investing time and money in Main Street — the heart of their community. Only local leadership can produce long-term success by fostering and demonstrating community involvement and commitment to the revitalization effort.
Partnerships: Both the public and private sectors have a vital interest in the district and must work together to achieve common goals of Main Street's revitalization. Each sector has a role to play and each must understand the other's strengths and limitations in order to forge an effective partnership.
Identifying and capitalizing on existing assets: Business districts must capitalize on the assets that make them unique. Every district has unique qualities like distinctive buildings and human scale that give people a sense of belonging. These local assets must serve as the foundation for all aspects of the revitalization program.
Quality: Emphasize quality in every aspect of the revitalization program. This applies to all elements of the process — from storefront designs to promotional campaigns to educational programs. Shoestring budgets and "cut and paste" efforts reinforce a negative image of the commercial district. Instead, concentrate on quality projects over quantity.
Change: Skeptics turn into believers and attitudes on Main Street will turn around. At first, almost no one believes Main Street can really turn around. Changes in attitude and practice are slow but definite — public support for change will build as the Main Street program grows and consistently meets its goals. Change also means engaging in better business practices, altering ways of thinking, and improving the physical appearance of the commercial district. A carefully planned Main Street program will help shift public perceptions and practices to support and sustain the revitalization process.
Implementation: To succeed, Main Street must show visible results that can only come from completing projects. Frequent, visible changes are a reminder that the revitalization effort is under way and succeeding. Small projects at the beginning of the program pave the way for larger ones as the revitalization effort matures, and that constant revitalization activity creates confidence in the Main Street program and ever-greater levels of participation
------------------------------------------------------------
The Main Street Four-Point Approach™
to commercial district revitalization
The Main Street Philosophy - Eight Principles of Success
The National Trust Main Street Center's experience in helping communities bring their commercial corridors back to life has shown time and time again that the Main Street Four-Point Approach succeeds. That success is guided by the following eight principles, which set the Main Street methodology apart from other redevelopment strategies. For a Main Street program to be successful, it must whole-heartedly embrace the following time-tested Eight Principles.
Comprehensive: No single focus — lavish public improvements, name-brand business recruitment, or endless promotional events — can revitalize Main Street. For successful, sustainable, long-term revitalization, a comprehensive approach, including activity in each of Main Street's Four Points, is essential.
Incremental: Baby steps come before walking. Successful revitalization programs begin with basic, simple activities that demonstrate that "new things are happening " in the commercial district. As public confidence in the Main Street district grows and participants' understanding of the revitalization process becomes more sophisticated, Main Street is able to tackle increasingly complex problems and more ambitious projects. This incremental change leads to much longer-lasting and dramatic positive change in the Main Street area.
Self-help: No one else will save your Main Street. Local leaders must have the will and desire to mobilize local resources and talent. That means convincing residents and business owners of the rewards they'll reap by investing time and money in Main Street — the heart of their community. Only local leadership can produce long-term success by fostering and demonstrating community involvement and commitment to the revitalization effort.
Partnerships: Both the public and private sectors have a vital interest in the district and must work together to achieve common goals of Main Street's revitalization. Each sector has a role to play and each must understand the other's strengths and limitations in order to forge an effective partnership.
Identifying and capitalizing on existing assets: Business districts must capitalize on the assets that make them unique. Every district has unique qualities like distinctive buildings and human scale that give people a sense of belonging. These local assets must serve as the foundation for all aspects of the revitalization program.
Quality: Emphasize quality in every aspect of the revitalization program. This applies to all elements of the process — from storefront designs to promotional campaigns to educational programs. Shoestring budgets and "cut and paste" efforts reinforce a negative image of the commercial district. Instead, concentrate on quality projects over quantity.
Change: Skeptics turn into believers and attitudes on Main Street will turn around. At first, almost no one believes Main Street can really turn around. Changes in attitude and practice are slow but definite — public support for change will build as the Main Street program grows and consistently meets its goals. Change also means engaging in better business practices, altering ways of thinking, and improving the physical appearance of the commercial district. A carefully planned Main Street program will help shift public perceptions and practices to support and sustain the revitalization process.
Implementation: To succeed, Main Street must show visible results that can only come from completing projects. Frequent, visible changes are a reminder that the revitalization effort is under way and succeeding. Small projects at the beginning of the program pave the way for larger ones as the revitalization effort matures, and that constant revitalization activity creates confidence in the Main Street program and ever-greater levels of participation
Friday, May 4, 2007
Thursday, May 3, 2007
Recent Coverage
We are thankful for the coverage that Channel 6 has given us this week. Here is the story that they ran on their news yesterday.
http://arklatexhomepage.com/media_player.php?media_id=1395
The Shreveport Times had something to say about it, too...
http://www.shreveporttimes.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070502/NEWS01/705020323/1002/NEWS
Also, The Minden Press-Herald published this on Wednesday:
http://www.nwlanews.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=3967&Itemid=1
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Minden Walgreens Controversy
Reported by: Kimberly Williams
05/02/2007 05:39pm
KTAL TV
For the past 6 months Craig and Mona Farley have been seriously considering the possibility of allowing an out of town developer put a Walgreens on their property. "We had entertained alot of different commercial offers. But this is the frst time we had somebody say to us.... what would you take," said Farley. Mona says the developer promised to move their home, and relocate it to the lot of their choice. And that if the Farleys agreed to the deal, they would also have a say in what the architecture of the new business would look like. "It was a conversation for... for a lack of a better word...a possibilities," said Farley. But there's one problem, Mona's home sits in the heart of Minden's Historic District. And once rumors of the new Walgreens started getting around town neighbors like Jackie Lewis were up in arms. "We were really upset! When we moved here three years ago... It never occurred to me that someone could come in and try to develop our historic district," said Lewis. Jackie immediately went to work doing research, starting an on line petition and rallying neighbors to form C.A.R.R., the Citizens Against Residential Rezoning. Tuesday night he group even called a town hall meeting at the Civic Center. "We really want to take action now and stop this from even being a possibility in the future," said Lewis. But Mona says she and her husband are still just thinking about the offer and nothing is set in stone. "The brokers kind of threw some numbers at us, but we never settled on anything..."We're just not ready to commit to anything." And at this point the decision of what to do with the house on Homer Road is strictly up to the Farleys. Meantime C.A.R.R. members hope to enlist the help of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. That group could possibly help keep the Farley's property from being re-zoned in the future.
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(Historic District Debate)
Written by Jana Ryan
Minden Press-Herald
Wednesday, 02 May 2007
Controversy swirls around proposal
It was a mixture of emotions Tuesday during a public meeting held to discuss the possible commercialization of property within Minden's residential Historic District. And with any topic of debate, there are two sides to the story. It appeared, by the majority of those present in the filled-to-capacity Minden City courtroom, that rezoning property within Minden’s historic residential district is not an option. But for Craig and Mona Farley, owners of the 104-year-old Greek revival home that stands on the site in question, the proposal offers a chance to save one of Minden's notable historic homes and allows for the setting of building standards that are nonexistent at this time. Those on the agenda to speak included Schelley Brown, president of the Residential Historic District and the director of the Dorcheat Museum; Lynn Warnock-Dorsey, executive director of the Webster Parish Convention and Visitors Bureau; F. Lestar Martin, architect, Louisiana Trust for Historic Preservation board member and chairman of the Louisiana National Register Review Committee; Jason Ebey, president of the Minden-South Webster Chamber of Commerce; Brooks Holstein, a representative of Retail Net Lease LLC, Florida, who confirmed during the meeting that the proposed commercial property is a Walgreens pharmacy; and Jackie Lewis, head of Citizens Against Residential Rezoning. Also speaking was Mona Farley; Sharon Nash, a real estate broker who brought Retail Net Lease LLC to Minden; and a number of residents who voiced their concerns, questions and opinions on the issue. Schelley Brown opened the meeting by saying no one present at the meeting was there to attack Craig or Mona Farley or the other individuals involved in the matter. "Most of us are here to keep the residential district just that — the residential district," said Brown. "We want to hear everyone's opinions and views. We want to encourage everyone to contact their city official and write to the local media." Brown said after hearing that the Farleys were in negotiations with a commercial developer, she met with the Farleys to discuss the situation. "Our conversation began with the fact that they had been approached months ago about this venture," said Brown. "My first thought was that the Farleys were the main ones against this same problem when CVS (pharmacy) wanted to purchase the Bridges Clinic on the other side of the street. So, now that it was on their side of the street, was it OK?" Brown said the Bridges property was zoned commercial at the time of the CVS proposal, yet the issue failed due to opposition from the people. She also questioned whether the Bridges would be eligible to file suit against the City of Minden if the Farley's property and neighboring properties included in the proposal were rezoned. Brown said rezoning the property to commercial would be a direct threat to Historic District residents’ "way of life" and would also threaten property values. "Many of us have put blood and sweat and lots of tears in these homes," said Brown. "Many others are living in family homes that are 100-plus years old. These are family legacies not to be taken lightly. "There are many, many places better suited for businesses and we welcome them, but not in a residential district and certainly not in a historical part of town," continued Brown. Lynn Warnock-Dorsey said she was present to express her personal views, not necessarily those of the board she serves. "As you know, tourism and economic development — I want you to know that we welcome all new businesses to Webster Parish," said Warnock-Dorsey. She added that she is concerned with the intrusion of commercial development in the Historic District, especially as there are so many other alternatives.Warnock-Dorsey said the Webster Parish Tourism Commission recently produced a new brochure for Webster Parish, which features and highlights Minden's Historic District."Historic sites are one of our top attractions for tourists in our area," she said, and added that the removal of the Farley from its current location would change the character of the community forever. "Please encourage our planning commission to keep the existing zoning as it is today," said Warnock-Dorsey. Warnock-Dorsey also made reference to the film industry's interest in Minden, saying the Historic District adds value to the City. F. Lestar Martin, architect, Louisiana Trust for Historic Preservation board member and chairman of the Louisiana National Register Review Committee, spoke as a concerned architectural historian, calling Minden "a unique town which could be compared to any New England colonial village." Martin took those present through a tour of the downtown Historic District area, describing the "West Gate" (park with statue and gazebo located to the west); downtown's mixture of governmental and commercial buildings; an assemblage of churches and residences; and the East Gate (intersection of Elm, East-West and Broadway Streets with Homer Road). Martin called the "East Gate" a collection of historic architecture. "You have a town with a design equal to that of Savannah or several New Haven villages — consider, do you want to lose that?” Martin asked.Jason E. Ebey addressed the crowd and opened his discussion with the Chamber's recent adoption of a resolution showing support of the proposed commercial site. "I want to dispel discussion about the actions the chamber took," said Ebey. "We passed a motion in support of this move and support of this endeavor and support of this economic development. Portions of that are true. When this presentation was presented to the Chamber Board of Directors, a long, lengthy discussion occurred and what came out of that was a resolution in support of a potential gathering of information about this economic development happening."Ebey said the Chamber's role is to support economic development."That is our mission. That is our statement. That is our goal," said Ebey. "In doing that, we have to look at every type of avenue. A lot of what we do is gather information and then see is it feasible to fit in Minden, is it feasible for the location, is it feasible for the potential jobs that will be created - so forth and so on. Part of that resolution stated that."Ebey said the Chamber of Commerce supported "the potential gathering of information of moving this home and putting a commercial business in that area." "Many people, and sometimes in the press, it was left out about what our resolution was contingent upon," said Ebey. "There was contingencies in the resolution that I think should ease a lot of minds, and that contingency was that the resolution was only supported until we found out what the business was. "When we found out what the business was, that resolution became null and void," Ebey continued. "No longer was there support from the Chamber to the resolution, to the business or to the Farleys. When we found out what that business was, it would have then been brought back to the Chamber Board of Directors, of which I am the spokesperson but have no vote, and they would have discussed and decided, do we pass a resolution continuing to support this commercial development, do we pass a resolution against this commercial development or do we take a neutral stand. The resolution was not completely in support of this development. We were absolutely adamant that if a business was going to be developed on that corner, we wanted to know the information."According to a copy of the resolution, which Ebey told the Press-Herald passed by a majority vote, the last paragraph of the resolution stated the Chamber offered its support of resolution with the contingency that the buyer disclosed to the Farleys the specific business to be placed on the site prior to the signing of the actual purchase and sell agreement and that the Farleys approved of said business. “One thing that was very good in the Chamber's eyes is that if this development continued, we did not know if it would or would not, but one of the things that the Chamber continued to look at, and I think was a deciding factor in why this resolution was passed, was that this home would be saved. That was our thought process,” Ebey said. “If we can bring in commercial development at the same time that preservation can still occur, the Chamber was interested in finding that information out and finding out all of the details before we as a Chamber, as a group of businesses in this community looking to progress this town, made a complete and final decision."Ebey indicated that information regarding the proposal became publicized too soon. He said when this happens with economic development, there can be catastrophe and chaos due to a lack of information or the lack of accurate information. As a civic leader, Ebey asked citizens to find out all of the information regarding the proposal before determining what is good for the community. Brooks Holstein, representing the developer, took the floor and said he and his company pride themselves on being extremely aware and sensitive to what they do as a development company. He shared his background so that those present could have a "sense of the responsibility and experience" brought to this project by he and his colleagues.Holstein choked up and apologized to the Farleys for the reaction they have encountered from the public."Had I known that they would be so open to ridicule and personal attack, we would not have approached them," said Holstein, who said the Farleys have been faced with ridicule, criticism and lectures about how they should spend their life and their money."To be yelled at and screamed at in a restaurant with them trying to preserve their home and being accused of taking bribes?" said Holstein. "It is unfair. We don't have to do this project. We came to them with a good idea and we have been accused of bribes — we don't bribe people."Jackie Lewis, a Historic District resident and one of the leaders of the opposition, said it is very important to her to protect the Historic District. "I love my historic home and I'm very interested to protect its value," said Lewis, who added that her opposition was not an attack on the Farleys.Lewis read excerpts from information published by the National Trust for Historic Preservation regarding the expansion of drug store chains in traditional American downtowns. "Unfortunately, they often damage a community's historic places and its character," said the print out. "Corporate America is not accidentally knocking at the Farleys’ door," said Lewis. "Walgreens has made it common practice to target our historic districts across this country — I cannot stress to you about how many this has happened to."Lewis said Citizens Against Residential Rezoning (CARR) was founded to provide the citizens of Minden a voice in which they can stop spot zoning in residential districts. She said an online blog has been set up at www.helpsaveminden.blogspot.com where people can located contact information as well as an online petition, which has been designed to help protect Minden's historic residential district from commercialization. Mona Farley next addressed those present. She said when discussions first began with the developer, she included another neighboring property owner. She said this person, identified later in the meeting as Dr. Clyde Frizzell, was not offered the amount of money he wanted, which lead him to indicate that he would "kill the deal." "He called the press, he called the representatives and he called the mayor," said Mona Farley. "His goal was to get more money — and now he's pretty stressed out about it and you'll get to here his words in a few moments from a letter that just came through today."Farley addressed CVS' attempt two years ago to construct at the Bridges Clinic location and admitted to spearheading the opposition. In her defense, she said her opposition was an effort to come up with a way that the CVS project could blend with the Historic District and be a win-win situation."I talked purist," said Farley. "I said you need to figure out how to make this a win-win, because we knew it was coming."Farley said she thought this new proposal from Walgreens might allow for some rules and regulations to be established for economic development within the Historical District.Farley said she and her husband had never signed anything regarding the proposition and it was their intention to go to government leaders and the Historic District prior to the issue going before the zoning committee.Mona Farley called the current situation a "heartbreaker," and said she felt they had been taking care of the Historic District.Ebey next read a letter sent via fax to him from Frizzell, who is currently in Israel. Afterwards, more than 20 people took the floor to address their concerns over the issue, with many echoing the sentiments that they were not attacking the Farleys nor were they against commercial development; however, they were against commercial property within the residential district. Ralph Lee said the problem with the proposal was "financial." He questioned how many jobs would be created and what kind of sales and tax revenue could be expected with a new drug store. "Where are those taxes going to come from? Where are those sales going to come from?" asked Lee. "We've already got the same amount of sales going on — all you’re doing is getting it from somebody else (other drug stores in Minden). We're not increasing anything, it's taking revenue. As a matter of fact, we're losing money — going out of the state to Walgreens. I'm here to stand against this man's offer that drove a wedge in this community." Murphy Bridges brought up the proposed development of his property two years ago, saying that he lost a three-quarter of a million-dollar deal for his family due to the surrounding controversy."I'm just saying, if the City Council goes for this go-through, what she (Brown) said earlier (lawsuit) is going to come to pass," said Bridges. "The only reason our deal got stopped is because the company that was going to purchase our property backed out because of the petition." Leslie Rayner questioned why the development company wanted to redesign a residential area when there were other commercial properties available in town. Brooks responded by saying that the development company had been looking for several years at locations in Minden, but had not been able to acquire any property. He also indicated several notable characteristics that developers look for, including a location at an intersection with a red light. Beverly Abraham, who lives across from the Farleys, said if a Walgreens is built at the site, she will sell her home. "I'm not going to have my children and my grandchildren raised across the street from a Walgreens," said Abraham. Two individuals, including Jerry Holly, spoke up during the meeting, saying they had commercial property in Minden for sale. Chris Broussard urged those present to come up with measures to protect the downtown and residential Historic District, and Wanda Purtle suggested making the historic area an entity in itself with a board of directors. She said the board could then make a rule that no commercial business could approach homeowners within the residential district. Other issues addressed included traffic and deliveries associated with a business and the effects it would have at the Homer Road/Elm Street location and whether or not the Historic District itself could purchase the Farley home.
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Minden residents have their say in preservation, commercialization issue
By Vickie Welbornmailto:WelbornVwelborn@gannett.com
The Shreveport Times
MINDEN -- A spillover crowd of more than 100 people concerned about the potential relocation of one of this city's most prominent historic homes to accommodate a new commercial development squeezed inside the Civic Center's council chambers Tuesday night to get first-hand information on both sides of the emotional issue.From the onset, the Minden residents were urged to keep their passions in check with a reminder that a police officer outside the doors would remove unruly speakers. And while the informational gathering remained calm, tears and personal feelings were evident in discussion of the issue that threatened to strain neighbors' relationships.
The meeting hadn't moved too far when the audience received confirmation that the commercial entity eying the corner of 101 Homer Road is indeed Walgreen's. Developer Brooks Holstein of Retail Net Lease LLC of Florida made the announcement as he defended homeowners Mona and Craig Farley, whose property is at the center of the debate.The Farleys agreed to talk to Holstein after getting news six months ago about the condition of their home, which Mona Farley said would take thousands of dollars to repair. Still, in their talks with Holstein, the couple came up with a "wish list" of demands that would have to be met before they would move forward in negotiations. Included is covering the cost of moving the Farleys' house from 101 Homer Road to an empty lot at the corner of Broadway and Kirby Circle, putting the home in the middle of the historic district; erecting historic signage at the corner of 101 Homer Road, that also should retain its trees and garden appeal; restricting the new building construction to reflect the historical look and feel of the district; and donating $50,000 to the Minden Historic District.Schelley Brown, president of the Minden Historic District, said the proposed project is a threat to the property values of the area."No one is opposed to new business & Walgreen's or anything else. Minden has plenty of commercial property and new business is welcomed, but not in a historic part of town," Brown said. "My main concern again is where does it stop?"Holestein assured the residents that he is concerned with the historical significance of the Farley's home and his company would not have approached the Farleys if he had known they would be hit with "ridicule, criticism and lectures" from their neighbors."It is unfair. We don't have to do this project," Holstein said. "We came to them with a good idea & and to be accused of bribes. We don't bribe people."The more than two-hour meeting was filled with a number of Minden residents taking their turns at the microphone to express their thoughts. Many first directed their support toward the Farleys, who sat on the front row. Others pointed questions at Holstein."If we're going to get economic development, then let's do it. & I'm here to stand against this man's offer that drove a wedge in this community," Ralph Lee said.Murphy Bridges noted that most in the audience fought his family's plans to sell property in the same residential area to another business, stopping a $750,000 deal for his family. He said, "We have a right to sue the City Council" if they allow the project to go through."Why do you want to redesign our residential area? Why not look at commercial area?" asked Bridges.Holstein, who was involved in an attempt two years ago by Eckerd's to acquire the Bridges land, answered that his company has not been able to acquire any other corner location."Tearing down the home was never even a consideration," Holstein said of theFarley's home.Beverly Abraham, who lives across from the Farleys, said no matter how Walgreen's sugarcoats it, " It's still a Walgreen's there. I'm going to have to sell that property. I'm not going to have my children and grandchildren raised across from a Walgreen's. & I'm just devastated that something else is going to be put on that property."Minden business owner Jerry Holly drew laughter and applause when he told Holstein he owns three acres on the Homer Road. "I've been there 29 years. I can see selling my place."Webster Parish School Board President Ronnie Broughton offered thoughts on how people of Minden revere "their historic district.:" He reminded the audience of a school election many years ago that failed because it would have left several schools empty, but a more recent one that retained and upgrades existing schools received voter support.Jackie Hensley wants the Farleys to be able to have the money to fix up their home. "But I just don't want it to be moved."
http://arklatexhomepage.com/media_player.php?media_id=1395
The Shreveport Times had something to say about it, too...
http://www.shreveporttimes.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070502/NEWS01/705020323/1002/NEWS
Also, The Minden Press-Herald published this on Wednesday:
http://www.nwlanews.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=3967&Itemid=1
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Minden Walgreens Controversy
Reported by: Kimberly Williams
05/02/2007 05:39pm
KTAL TV
For the past 6 months Craig and Mona Farley have been seriously considering the possibility of allowing an out of town developer put a Walgreens on their property. "We had entertained alot of different commercial offers. But this is the frst time we had somebody say to us.... what would you take," said Farley. Mona says the developer promised to move their home, and relocate it to the lot of their choice. And that if the Farleys agreed to the deal, they would also have a say in what the architecture of the new business would look like. "It was a conversation for... for a lack of a better word...a possibilities," said Farley. But there's one problem, Mona's home sits in the heart of Minden's Historic District. And once rumors of the new Walgreens started getting around town neighbors like Jackie Lewis were up in arms. "We were really upset! When we moved here three years ago... It never occurred to me that someone could come in and try to develop our historic district," said Lewis. Jackie immediately went to work doing research, starting an on line petition and rallying neighbors to form C.A.R.R., the Citizens Against Residential Rezoning. Tuesday night he group even called a town hall meeting at the Civic Center. "We really want to take action now and stop this from even being a possibility in the future," said Lewis. But Mona says she and her husband are still just thinking about the offer and nothing is set in stone. "The brokers kind of threw some numbers at us, but we never settled on anything..."We're just not ready to commit to anything." And at this point the decision of what to do with the house on Homer Road is strictly up to the Farleys. Meantime C.A.R.R. members hope to enlist the help of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. That group could possibly help keep the Farley's property from being re-zoned in the future.
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(Historic District Debate)
Written by Jana Ryan
Minden Press-Herald
Wednesday, 02 May 2007
Controversy swirls around proposal
It was a mixture of emotions Tuesday during a public meeting held to discuss the possible commercialization of property within Minden's residential Historic District. And with any topic of debate, there are two sides to the story. It appeared, by the majority of those present in the filled-to-capacity Minden City courtroom, that rezoning property within Minden’s historic residential district is not an option. But for Craig and Mona Farley, owners of the 104-year-old Greek revival home that stands on the site in question, the proposal offers a chance to save one of Minden's notable historic homes and allows for the setting of building standards that are nonexistent at this time. Those on the agenda to speak included Schelley Brown, president of the Residential Historic District and the director of the Dorcheat Museum; Lynn Warnock-Dorsey, executive director of the Webster Parish Convention and Visitors Bureau; F. Lestar Martin, architect, Louisiana Trust for Historic Preservation board member and chairman of the Louisiana National Register Review Committee; Jason Ebey, president of the Minden-South Webster Chamber of Commerce; Brooks Holstein, a representative of Retail Net Lease LLC, Florida, who confirmed during the meeting that the proposed commercial property is a Walgreens pharmacy; and Jackie Lewis, head of Citizens Against Residential Rezoning. Also speaking was Mona Farley; Sharon Nash, a real estate broker who brought Retail Net Lease LLC to Minden; and a number of residents who voiced their concerns, questions and opinions on the issue. Schelley Brown opened the meeting by saying no one present at the meeting was there to attack Craig or Mona Farley or the other individuals involved in the matter. "Most of us are here to keep the residential district just that — the residential district," said Brown. "We want to hear everyone's opinions and views. We want to encourage everyone to contact their city official and write to the local media." Brown said after hearing that the Farleys were in negotiations with a commercial developer, she met with the Farleys to discuss the situation. "Our conversation began with the fact that they had been approached months ago about this venture," said Brown. "My first thought was that the Farleys were the main ones against this same problem when CVS (pharmacy) wanted to purchase the Bridges Clinic on the other side of the street. So, now that it was on their side of the street, was it OK?" Brown said the Bridges property was zoned commercial at the time of the CVS proposal, yet the issue failed due to opposition from the people. She also questioned whether the Bridges would be eligible to file suit against the City of Minden if the Farley's property and neighboring properties included in the proposal were rezoned. Brown said rezoning the property to commercial would be a direct threat to Historic District residents’ "way of life" and would also threaten property values. "Many of us have put blood and sweat and lots of tears in these homes," said Brown. "Many others are living in family homes that are 100-plus years old. These are family legacies not to be taken lightly. "There are many, many places better suited for businesses and we welcome them, but not in a residential district and certainly not in a historical part of town," continued Brown. Lynn Warnock-Dorsey said she was present to express her personal views, not necessarily those of the board she serves. "As you know, tourism and economic development — I want you to know that we welcome all new businesses to Webster Parish," said Warnock-Dorsey. She added that she is concerned with the intrusion of commercial development in the Historic District, especially as there are so many other alternatives.Warnock-Dorsey said the Webster Parish Tourism Commission recently produced a new brochure for Webster Parish, which features and highlights Minden's Historic District."Historic sites are one of our top attractions for tourists in our area," she said, and added that the removal of the Farley from its current location would change the character of the community forever. "Please encourage our planning commission to keep the existing zoning as it is today," said Warnock-Dorsey. Warnock-Dorsey also made reference to the film industry's interest in Minden, saying the Historic District adds value to the City. F. Lestar Martin, architect, Louisiana Trust for Historic Preservation board member and chairman of the Louisiana National Register Review Committee, spoke as a concerned architectural historian, calling Minden "a unique town which could be compared to any New England colonial village." Martin took those present through a tour of the downtown Historic District area, describing the "West Gate" (park with statue and gazebo located to the west); downtown's mixture of governmental and commercial buildings; an assemblage of churches and residences; and the East Gate (intersection of Elm, East-West and Broadway Streets with Homer Road). Martin called the "East Gate" a collection of historic architecture. "You have a town with a design equal to that of Savannah or several New Haven villages — consider, do you want to lose that?” Martin asked.Jason E. Ebey addressed the crowd and opened his discussion with the Chamber's recent adoption of a resolution showing support of the proposed commercial site. "I want to dispel discussion about the actions the chamber took," said Ebey. "We passed a motion in support of this move and support of this endeavor and support of this economic development. Portions of that are true. When this presentation was presented to the Chamber Board of Directors, a long, lengthy discussion occurred and what came out of that was a resolution in support of a potential gathering of information about this economic development happening."Ebey said the Chamber's role is to support economic development."That is our mission. That is our statement. That is our goal," said Ebey. "In doing that, we have to look at every type of avenue. A lot of what we do is gather information and then see is it feasible to fit in Minden, is it feasible for the location, is it feasible for the potential jobs that will be created - so forth and so on. Part of that resolution stated that."Ebey said the Chamber of Commerce supported "the potential gathering of information of moving this home and putting a commercial business in that area." "Many people, and sometimes in the press, it was left out about what our resolution was contingent upon," said Ebey. "There was contingencies in the resolution that I think should ease a lot of minds, and that contingency was that the resolution was only supported until we found out what the business was. "When we found out what the business was, that resolution became null and void," Ebey continued. "No longer was there support from the Chamber to the resolution, to the business or to the Farleys. When we found out what that business was, it would have then been brought back to the Chamber Board of Directors, of which I am the spokesperson but have no vote, and they would have discussed and decided, do we pass a resolution continuing to support this commercial development, do we pass a resolution against this commercial development or do we take a neutral stand. The resolution was not completely in support of this development. We were absolutely adamant that if a business was going to be developed on that corner, we wanted to know the information."According to a copy of the resolution, which Ebey told the Press-Herald passed by a majority vote, the last paragraph of the resolution stated the Chamber offered its support of resolution with the contingency that the buyer disclosed to the Farleys the specific business to be placed on the site prior to the signing of the actual purchase and sell agreement and that the Farleys approved of said business. “One thing that was very good in the Chamber's eyes is that if this development continued, we did not know if it would or would not, but one of the things that the Chamber continued to look at, and I think was a deciding factor in why this resolution was passed, was that this home would be saved. That was our thought process,” Ebey said. “If we can bring in commercial development at the same time that preservation can still occur, the Chamber was interested in finding that information out and finding out all of the details before we as a Chamber, as a group of businesses in this community looking to progress this town, made a complete and final decision."Ebey indicated that information regarding the proposal became publicized too soon. He said when this happens with economic development, there can be catastrophe and chaos due to a lack of information or the lack of accurate information. As a civic leader, Ebey asked citizens to find out all of the information regarding the proposal before determining what is good for the community. Brooks Holstein, representing the developer, took the floor and said he and his company pride themselves on being extremely aware and sensitive to what they do as a development company. He shared his background so that those present could have a "sense of the responsibility and experience" brought to this project by he and his colleagues.Holstein choked up and apologized to the Farleys for the reaction they have encountered from the public."Had I known that they would be so open to ridicule and personal attack, we would not have approached them," said Holstein, who said the Farleys have been faced with ridicule, criticism and lectures about how they should spend their life and their money."To be yelled at and screamed at in a restaurant with them trying to preserve their home and being accused of taking bribes?" said Holstein. "It is unfair. We don't have to do this project. We came to them with a good idea and we have been accused of bribes — we don't bribe people."Jackie Lewis, a Historic District resident and one of the leaders of the opposition, said it is very important to her to protect the Historic District. "I love my historic home and I'm very interested to protect its value," said Lewis, who added that her opposition was not an attack on the Farleys.Lewis read excerpts from information published by the National Trust for Historic Preservation regarding the expansion of drug store chains in traditional American downtowns. "Unfortunately, they often damage a community's historic places and its character," said the print out. "Corporate America is not accidentally knocking at the Farleys’ door," said Lewis. "Walgreens has made it common practice to target our historic districts across this country — I cannot stress to you about how many this has happened to."Lewis said Citizens Against Residential Rezoning (CARR) was founded to provide the citizens of Minden a voice in which they can stop spot zoning in residential districts. She said an online blog has been set up at www.helpsaveminden.blogspot.com where people can located contact information as well as an online petition, which has been designed to help protect Minden's historic residential district from commercialization. Mona Farley next addressed those present. She said when discussions first began with the developer, she included another neighboring property owner. She said this person, identified later in the meeting as Dr. Clyde Frizzell, was not offered the amount of money he wanted, which lead him to indicate that he would "kill the deal." "He called the press, he called the representatives and he called the mayor," said Mona Farley. "His goal was to get more money — and now he's pretty stressed out about it and you'll get to here his words in a few moments from a letter that just came through today."Farley addressed CVS' attempt two years ago to construct at the Bridges Clinic location and admitted to spearheading the opposition. In her defense, she said her opposition was an effort to come up with a way that the CVS project could blend with the Historic District and be a win-win situation."I talked purist," said Farley. "I said you need to figure out how to make this a win-win, because we knew it was coming."Farley said she thought this new proposal from Walgreens might allow for some rules and regulations to be established for economic development within the Historical District.Farley said she and her husband had never signed anything regarding the proposition and it was their intention to go to government leaders and the Historic District prior to the issue going before the zoning committee.Mona Farley called the current situation a "heartbreaker," and said she felt they had been taking care of the Historic District.Ebey next read a letter sent via fax to him from Frizzell, who is currently in Israel. Afterwards, more than 20 people took the floor to address their concerns over the issue, with many echoing the sentiments that they were not attacking the Farleys nor were they against commercial development; however, they were against commercial property within the residential district. Ralph Lee said the problem with the proposal was "financial." He questioned how many jobs would be created and what kind of sales and tax revenue could be expected with a new drug store. "Where are those taxes going to come from? Where are those sales going to come from?" asked Lee. "We've already got the same amount of sales going on — all you’re doing is getting it from somebody else (other drug stores in Minden). We're not increasing anything, it's taking revenue. As a matter of fact, we're losing money — going out of the state to Walgreens. I'm here to stand against this man's offer that drove a wedge in this community." Murphy Bridges brought up the proposed development of his property two years ago, saying that he lost a three-quarter of a million-dollar deal for his family due to the surrounding controversy."I'm just saying, if the City Council goes for this go-through, what she (Brown) said earlier (lawsuit) is going to come to pass," said Bridges. "The only reason our deal got stopped is because the company that was going to purchase our property backed out because of the petition." Leslie Rayner questioned why the development company wanted to redesign a residential area when there were other commercial properties available in town. Brooks responded by saying that the development company had been looking for several years at locations in Minden, but had not been able to acquire any property. He also indicated several notable characteristics that developers look for, including a location at an intersection with a red light. Beverly Abraham, who lives across from the Farleys, said if a Walgreens is built at the site, she will sell her home. "I'm not going to have my children and my grandchildren raised across the street from a Walgreens," said Abraham. Two individuals, including Jerry Holly, spoke up during the meeting, saying they had commercial property in Minden for sale. Chris Broussard urged those present to come up with measures to protect the downtown and residential Historic District, and Wanda Purtle suggested making the historic area an entity in itself with a board of directors. She said the board could then make a rule that no commercial business could approach homeowners within the residential district. Other issues addressed included traffic and deliveries associated with a business and the effects it would have at the Homer Road/Elm Street location and whether or not the Historic District itself could purchase the Farley home.
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Minden residents have their say in preservation, commercialization issue
By Vickie Welbornmailto:WelbornVwelborn@gannett.com
The Shreveport Times
MINDEN -- A spillover crowd of more than 100 people concerned about the potential relocation of one of this city's most prominent historic homes to accommodate a new commercial development squeezed inside the Civic Center's council chambers Tuesday night to get first-hand information on both sides of the emotional issue.From the onset, the Minden residents were urged to keep their passions in check with a reminder that a police officer outside the doors would remove unruly speakers. And while the informational gathering remained calm, tears and personal feelings were evident in discussion of the issue that threatened to strain neighbors' relationships.
The meeting hadn't moved too far when the audience received confirmation that the commercial entity eying the corner of 101 Homer Road is indeed Walgreen's. Developer Brooks Holstein of Retail Net Lease LLC of Florida made the announcement as he defended homeowners Mona and Craig Farley, whose property is at the center of the debate.The Farleys agreed to talk to Holstein after getting news six months ago about the condition of their home, which Mona Farley said would take thousands of dollars to repair. Still, in their talks with Holstein, the couple came up with a "wish list" of demands that would have to be met before they would move forward in negotiations. Included is covering the cost of moving the Farleys' house from 101 Homer Road to an empty lot at the corner of Broadway and Kirby Circle, putting the home in the middle of the historic district; erecting historic signage at the corner of 101 Homer Road, that also should retain its trees and garden appeal; restricting the new building construction to reflect the historical look and feel of the district; and donating $50,000 to the Minden Historic District.Schelley Brown, president of the Minden Historic District, said the proposed project is a threat to the property values of the area."No one is opposed to new business & Walgreen's or anything else. Minden has plenty of commercial property and new business is welcomed, but not in a historic part of town," Brown said. "My main concern again is where does it stop?"Holestein assured the residents that he is concerned with the historical significance of the Farley's home and his company would not have approached the Farleys if he had known they would be hit with "ridicule, criticism and lectures" from their neighbors."It is unfair. We don't have to do this project," Holstein said. "We came to them with a good idea & and to be accused of bribes. We don't bribe people."The more than two-hour meeting was filled with a number of Minden residents taking their turns at the microphone to express their thoughts. Many first directed their support toward the Farleys, who sat on the front row. Others pointed questions at Holstein."If we're going to get economic development, then let's do it. & I'm here to stand against this man's offer that drove a wedge in this community," Ralph Lee said.Murphy Bridges noted that most in the audience fought his family's plans to sell property in the same residential area to another business, stopping a $750,000 deal for his family. He said, "We have a right to sue the City Council" if they allow the project to go through."Why do you want to redesign our residential area? Why not look at commercial area?" asked Bridges.Holstein, who was involved in an attempt two years ago by Eckerd's to acquire the Bridges land, answered that his company has not been able to acquire any other corner location."Tearing down the home was never even a consideration," Holstein said of theFarley's home.Beverly Abraham, who lives across from the Farleys, said no matter how Walgreen's sugarcoats it, " It's still a Walgreen's there. I'm going to have to sell that property. I'm not going to have my children and grandchildren raised across from a Walgreen's. & I'm just devastated that something else is going to be put on that property."Minden business owner Jerry Holly drew laughter and applause when he told Holstein he owns three acres on the Homer Road. "I've been there 29 years. I can see selling my place."Webster Parish School Board President Ronnie Broughton offered thoughts on how people of Minden revere "their historic district.:" He reminded the audience of a school election many years ago that failed because it would have left several schools empty, but a more recent one that retained and upgrades existing schools received voter support.Jackie Hensley wants the Farleys to be able to have the money to fix up their home. "But I just don't want it to be moved."
Tuesday, May 1, 2007
The Meeting / Clarification
I cannot express in words how proud I am of our community. You guys all were there, facts in hand, and handled the meeting with grace and dignity. I believe that our efforts made a big difference, and I was very pleased that it became official tonight that Walgreens is indeed the proposed business that would be placed in the middle of our historic residential district.
Standing up for what you believe in can certainly be a tough row to hoe, but all of you have really made a difference! You volunteered to do the legwork, drew up the petition, spoke with the media about our viewpoints and pretty much forced this issue to the spotlight for all around to see. For that you should be commended.
So what's next? I would like to officially call for tomorrow to be our day of rest... I have slept an average of 4 hours a night for the last 6 days, so I'm a little bit tired. Being the Mommy of two boys, ages 1 1/2 and 5, is demanding even when I'm not trying to save our historic district. :)
I just want you all to know that we have much to do concerning this issue. Even if this deal falls through- and may I reiterate that we're certainly not out of the woods yet- we need to take action now to prevent this from happening again. We as a historic district need to band together and decide how we would like to approach the encroachment of our residential property from a legal standpoint.
The fact of the matter is that big money is too tempting. We cannot trust ourselves to refuse large cash payouts for giving away our pieces of the historic residential district. When a developer is knocking on your door, offering you way more that market value for your home, what will you do? If there's one thing that we've learned during all of this, it's that an issue this divisive can rip apart the finely woven threads of our community. We need to look out for one another and remove the option from the table... to save our historic homes, our land values, and our friendships. We definitely sent the message tonight that we will not stand back and watch our historic district fall by the wayside. The practice of replacing nationally registered historic homes with cookie-cutter drugstores may be allowed in other towns, but we're not going to stand for it here! I think that everyone made that point undeniably clear tonight!
There is one other subject that I would like to broach this evening. I have been contacted by several members of our organization that have heard rumors that claim our cause is receiving media attention because I work for the Minden Press-Herald. I would like to publicly announce that I do not work for The Press-Herald, as I resigned the position of graphic designer for their organization last January. I can assure you that the position that I held for six months at The Minden Press-Herald in no way gave us an advantage concerning media coverage.
Once again, I want to thank you all for your support. We began this crusade to "help save Minden" only 6 days ago. I am absolutely amazed at all that we have accomplished. We have a long road to travel, but it will certainly feel great to stop here for the night.
With sincere admiration for you all,
Jackie
Standing up for what you believe in can certainly be a tough row to hoe, but all of you have really made a difference! You volunteered to do the legwork, drew up the petition, spoke with the media about our viewpoints and pretty much forced this issue to the spotlight for all around to see. For that you should be commended.
So what's next? I would like to officially call for tomorrow to be our day of rest... I have slept an average of 4 hours a night for the last 6 days, so I'm a little bit tired. Being the Mommy of two boys, ages 1 1/2 and 5, is demanding even when I'm not trying to save our historic district. :)
I just want you all to know that we have much to do concerning this issue. Even if this deal falls through- and may I reiterate that we're certainly not out of the woods yet- we need to take action now to prevent this from happening again. We as a historic district need to band together and decide how we would like to approach the encroachment of our residential property from a legal standpoint.
The fact of the matter is that big money is too tempting. We cannot trust ourselves to refuse large cash payouts for giving away our pieces of the historic residential district. When a developer is knocking on your door, offering you way more that market value for your home, what will you do? If there's one thing that we've learned during all of this, it's that an issue this divisive can rip apart the finely woven threads of our community. We need to look out for one another and remove the option from the table... to save our historic homes, our land values, and our friendships. We definitely sent the message tonight that we will not stand back and watch our historic district fall by the wayside. The practice of replacing nationally registered historic homes with cookie-cutter drugstores may be allowed in other towns, but we're not going to stand for it here! I think that everyone made that point undeniably clear tonight!
There is one other subject that I would like to broach this evening. I have been contacted by several members of our organization that have heard rumors that claim our cause is receiving media attention because I work for the Minden Press-Herald. I would like to publicly announce that I do not work for The Press-Herald, as I resigned the position of graphic designer for their organization last January. I can assure you that the position that I held for six months at The Minden Press-Herald in no way gave us an advantage concerning media coverage.
Once again, I want to thank you all for your support. We began this crusade to "help save Minden" only 6 days ago. I am absolutely amazed at all that we have accomplished. We have a long road to travel, but it will certainly feel great to stop here for the night.
With sincere admiration for you all,
Jackie
Sunday, April 29, 2007
PRESS RELEASE
EMERGENCY MEETING OF CITIZENS AGAINST RESIDENTIAL REZONING AND MINDEN HISTORIC DISTRICT TO BE HELD TUESDAY NIGHT, 6:30, CIVIC CENTER, CITY COURTROOM
There will be an emergency meeting of the Citizens Against Residential Rezoning/Minden Historic District on Tuesday night, May 1, at 6:30 pm at the Minden Civic Center City Courtroom. You do not have to live in the historic district to attend this meeting! Everyone is encouraged to attend, as this meeting will be a discussion about the possible spot zoning of a very prominent area in our RESIDENTIAL historic district! For more information, call 318-382-8979.
Citizens wishing to resist the movement to rezone a large section of Minden’s Historic Residential District have formed a group entitled Citizens Against Residential Rezoning, also known as CARR. This organization was founded as a way for the citizens of Minden, Louisiana and other supporters of our community to unite and fight the spot zoning of our Historic Residential District, and the possible rezoning of other residential districts. We are focused on securing the prevention of the proposed spot zoning of one of the most prominent areas in our RESIDENTIAL Historic District. If developers have their way, this beautiful historic area will be turned into an "unnamed" business! If you would like to join us in our efforts, feel free to contact us at 318-382-8979 or email us at lewisfamily1908@bellsouth.net. You may also visit our blog at www.helpsaveminden.blogspot.com. Your assistance is appreciated! If you would like to be included in our email listing, which will keep you up-to-date on our progress, please email us at lewisfamily1908@bellsouth.net and type “CARR EMAIL LIST” in the subject box.
At Tuesday night’s meeting, you will have the opportunity to sign a petition to show your disapproval of the commercialization of the Minden Historic RESIDENTIAL District. We also have an online petition available to gather signatures of our supports. This online petition will be particularly beneficial to people that believe in our cause, but cannot sign the petition in person for whatever reason. The online petition may be found at: http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/helpsaveminden/.
We at CARR look forward to working with community leaders to secure the future of Minden’s Historic Residential District. We believe that our community can work out a suitable alternative in an already approved commercially zoned location that will please this corportion, the residents of the Historic District, and the citizens of Minden.
We are expecting heavy media attention from television and newspaper outlets. Residential Historic District spot zoning has attracted national media attention in the past, and we are excited that our local news sources are so eager to help us publicize this matter.
There will be an emergency meeting of the Citizens Against Residential Rezoning/Minden Historic District on Tuesday night, May 1, at 6:30 pm at the Minden Civic Center City Courtroom. You do not have to live in the historic district to attend this meeting! Everyone is encouraged to attend, as this meeting will be a discussion about the possible spot zoning of a very prominent area in our RESIDENTIAL historic district! For more information, call 318-382-8979.
Citizens wishing to resist the movement to rezone a large section of Minden’s Historic Residential District have formed a group entitled Citizens Against Residential Rezoning, also known as CARR. This organization was founded as a way for the citizens of Minden, Louisiana and other supporters of our community to unite and fight the spot zoning of our Historic Residential District, and the possible rezoning of other residential districts. We are focused on securing the prevention of the proposed spot zoning of one of the most prominent areas in our RESIDENTIAL Historic District. If developers have their way, this beautiful historic area will be turned into an "unnamed" business! If you would like to join us in our efforts, feel free to contact us at 318-382-8979 or email us at lewisfamily1908@bellsouth.net. You may also visit our blog at www.helpsaveminden.blogspot.com. Your assistance is appreciated! If you would like to be included in our email listing, which will keep you up-to-date on our progress, please email us at lewisfamily1908@bellsouth.net and type “CARR EMAIL LIST” in the subject box.
At Tuesday night’s meeting, you will have the opportunity to sign a petition to show your disapproval of the commercialization of the Minden Historic RESIDENTIAL District. We also have an online petition available to gather signatures of our supports. This online petition will be particularly beneficial to people that believe in our cause, but cannot sign the petition in person for whatever reason. The online petition may be found at: http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/helpsaveminden/.
We at CARR look forward to working with community leaders to secure the future of Minden’s Historic Residential District. We believe that our community can work out a suitable alternative in an already approved commercially zoned location that will please this corportion, the residents of the Historic District, and the citizens of Minden.
We are expecting heavy media attention from television and newspaper outlets. Residential Historic District spot zoning has attracted national media attention in the past, and we are excited that our local news sources are so eager to help us publicize this matter.
HISTORIC DISTRICT HOMES
This is the spot that could possibly be replaced with a commercial business... if it is rezoned from residential to commercial.
We must stop this!
Minden Press-Herald Coverage
Here is how we reacted...
http://www.nwlanews.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=3895&Itemid=1
to this...
http://www.nwlanews.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=3875&Itemid=1
An editorial about why I feel this way...
http://www.nwlanews.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=3877&Itemid=29
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Historic home could be site of new business
Written by Jana Ryan
Thursday, 26 April 2007
Restoring a historic home, providing a $50,000 trust for the Minden Historic District and preserving the integrity of Minden's historic district are the goals of an unnamed retailer, who wishes to construct a commercial business on the corner of Homer Road and Elm Street.Craig and Mona Farley, whose 104-year-old Greek revival home stands on the site in question, and Brooks Holstein of Retail Net Lease LLC, Florida, confirmed Wednesday that negotiations are underway for the sale of property, located at 101 Homer Road.Two additional property owners, whose land neighbors that of the Farleys, have indicated that they too have been approached about the sale of their land. Both wished to remain anonymous at this time.The location in question is currently zoned R-2 (single family residence). Such an endeavor would require the Minden Regional Planning Commission as well as the Minden City Council to give their nod of approval to rezoning the area to commercial use.According to Craig and Mona Farley, initial attempts by the developer, Retail Net Lease LLC out of Florida, were rebuffed. However, due to the deterioration of their historic home, which is in need of around $150,000 to $200,000 worth of repairs, they decided to listen to what the company had to offer. The Farleys made a list of, for better lack of a word, demands, and up to this point, the developer and its client has been agreeable to all of the specified stipulations.The list includes that the home be moved to property located on the southwest corner of Broadway and Kirby Circle. This effort will only require the removal of one tulip tree. The developer has also assured the Farleys that their client intends to maintain the grounds of the historic homesite and not clear the property of its majestic trees.The parties have also agreed that the proposed new building and grounds will reflect the historic look and feel of the district, with the buyer requesting, receiving and following appropriate guidelines, direction and approval for the design and features from the State of Louisiana Staff architect for the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism, Division of Historic Preservation.A provision will be made part of the deed, which will require the owner of the property to obtain advance approval for any future changes and/or additions to the site from the Louisiana Division of Historic Preservation. This provision will be binding for all future owners of the property.The buyers have also agreed that after construction is completed, it will have signs erected at the location, which describes the historical significance of the site.In addition, the buyer has also agreed to donate $50,000 to the preservation of Minden's Historic District. The funds will go into a trust to be used for historic preservation and betterment of the City."We've asked for some unusual things, but I don't think we've been greedy," said Mona Farley. "We've tried to make it fair for everybody. This is a way to set a precedent, to get something in there that will be maintained for ever and ever in a certain way, get the house fixed and also get $50,000 for historic preservation. You can't hardly beat that."Another provision in the Contract of Purchase and Sell states that prior to the signing of the actual Purchase and Sell Agreement, the buyer will disclose to the Farleys the entity purchasing the property and the specific business that will be constructed at the 101 Homer Road location. The Farleys said if they feel that the specified business will not be conducive at the location, they will pull out of the deal.No contracts have been signed and the Farleys say their property will not be sold if the buyer does not follow through with all of their specified provisions. The project also depends on whether or not agreements can be reached with the other property owners and if the buyers can acquire the support of the City.According to Holstein, the land acquisition project began approximately 60 days ago."We've been actively interested in Minden for well over a year and have evaluated a number of different properties and we felt this was an opportunity to do something beneficial for the landowners, hopefully beneficial for our retailer as well as the city," said Holstein.Holstein said the Farleys have been very clear about their interests and concerns for the quality of life in Minden as well as their commitment to maintain their property and the surrounding area in a "pristine" manner."But, their primary goal was trying to preserve the integrity of their home and insure its longevity," said Holstein.Holstein and each of his partners have been in the development business for 25 years. They also have experience in developing commercial properties within historic districts."I developed a free standing restaurant in Williamsburg, Virginia, which, as you can imagine, has extremely stringent criteria in terms of trying to maintain an economic viable community outside of colonial Williamsburg while at the same time maintaining a sense of place and presence along the Richmond Highway," said Holstein. "This isn't a first time experience for me to do something like this."Holstein said the Williamsburg project was very challenging and the community involvement was a "unique" experience - the same as what is being proposed for the Farley property. "I can assure you we have full support of our retailer to try to find an architecturally aesthetic facility that will compliment the existing public and private structures in the near proximity to the property," said Holstein.According to the developer, one reason for their selection of this particular site was its proximity to downtown Minden."That plays a very big part of it," said Holstein. "We see the viability of downtown - the proximity of other businesses - and downtown is a big part of the long-term redevelopment of most communities. This is a service-oriented business and the more convenient it is, the better they feel that they are as a long-term tenant."At this time, no rezoning requests have come before the Regional Planning Commission or the Minden City Council. However, the Minden-South Webster Chamber of Commerce met Wednesday and agreed to draft a proposition in support of a future commercial site at the Farley home location. Commenting strictly on an economic viewpoint, Jason Ebey, president of the Minden-South Webster Chamber of Commerce said, "Any new retail chain or retail store that were to develop in the Minden area is an absolute positive for our area. The development of jobs and revenue for more sales tax dollars would improve a substantial increase in the economic scope for Minden-South Webster.”"I think it's going to be one of those developments in your city that, over the coming years, your city administration and your elected officials are going to say, 'This is a development where a developer came into town and exceeded our expectations in their willingness to be a part of our community and contribute to our vision rather than detract from our vision of what we're trying to accomplish with Main Street,'" said Holstein.
--------------------------------------
Possible business in Historic District met with opposition
Written by Jana Ryan
Friday, 27 April 2007
Historic District residents and other Minden natives are voicing strong opposition to the proposed construction of a commercial business at the corner of Homer Road and Elm Street.On Thursday, the Minden Press-Herald reported that Retail Net Lease LLC out of Florida has entered into negotiations with Craig and Mona Farley, the owners of the 104-year-old Greek revival home, located at 101 Homer Road, as well as several other neighboring property owners. The firm, working for an unnamed retailer, wishes to construct a commercial business at the site, which is currently zoned R-2 (single family residence).According to the Farleys, initial propositions by the developer were rebuffed; however, due to the deterioration of their historic home, which is in need of around $150,000 to $200,000 worth of repairs, they decided to listen to what the company had to offer. Jackie Lewis, a Historic District resident, who lives with her husband and children at 512 Fort Ave., is spearheading a resistance to a commercial business at the location. By Thursday afternoon, she had composed a letter regarding the issue and she, as well as other Historic District residents were going door to door, spreading the word of the proposed commercial property and encouraging people to attend an emergency meeting to discuss the situation. Not only Historic District residents, but all concerned Mindenites are urged to attend the meeting, which will be held at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 1, at a yet to be determined location."This is a corporation — this isn't, 'Oh, we love downtown Minden and we care about Minden,'" said Lewis. "This is what these people do as a profession. If they want to help out the Historic District and restore things, there are plenty of places they could do this without taking out the most prominent historic downtown home."Properties constructed by Retail Net Lease LLC include Walgreens drug stores, Ruby Tuesday restaurants and Starbucks. At this time, neither the name of the company's client or the type of business involved in the proposal has been released; however, in a previous interview with Brooks Holstein of Retail Net Lease LLC, the proposed business is not a restaurant. For several months prior to Wednesday's confirmation of ongoing negotiations between the property owners and the development company, rumors had been circulating that Walgreens was coming to Minden. Even Mayor Bill Robertson said he had heard rumors, from an unofficial source, that Walgreens was coming to town. However, Walgreens Corporate Spokesperson Carol Hively said last Friday that there is no information in the company's database indicating plans for Minden or Webster Parish. She added that doesn't necessarily mean the company isn't scouting the area.After Lewis learned of the proposed commercial property, she began researching the development company."I researched this a good bit," said Lewis. "Let's say this is a Walgreens - this is something that Walgreens does all the time. They pick the most prominent, historic house or houses and tear them down and put in these businesses, or they say, 'We'll move the house,' or 'We're doing this to restore the house,' but they are not. They are doing this for business. This business may be good for five or 10 years and then what are they going to do with it? It's not good at all for the Historic District."Lewis' research provided information on communities who have fought corporate invasion into Historic Districts."Other communities have fought it and said, 'We don't want that,' so they've (developers) gone downtown and revitalized some of the old abandoned buildings downtown and made a beautiful facade in the front where it blended in it gave them what they wanted," said Lewis. "It was absolutely gorgeous for the town and everybody benefited. We're more than willing to go over proposals and help in any way we can in finding an alternate location, but we just do not feel that (Homer Road and Elm Street) is a proper location for a business — not right there."Lewis has contacted the National Trust for Historic Homes, garnering its support in the fight to keep the Historic District intact.Schelley Brown, executive director of the Dorcheat Historical Association Museum and 2007 president of the Historic Residential Association, said she has talked with Craig and Mona Farley and understands their predicament with having a home that needs repairs; however, she believes a business at that location would be "intrusive" and added, "There are plenty of other places in Minden to do something like that.""As being a part of the Historic District, many of the homes need repairs and many of us can't afford it, but having business come in, when they see that can take advantage of the situation — I just don't see how turning a residential area into commercial property can be good for the residents and for our property values," said Brown. "Everybody who bought a house or lives in the Historic District bought those homes because they wanted that distinction, including Mona and Craig. You bought that house because you loved history and wanted to preserve that part of Minden that is precious to us."On Thursday, the Minden-South Webster Chamber of Commerce adopted a resolution in support of the proposed commercial development at the Homer Road site if the following list of conditions set forth by the Farleys are met:1) The home is moved to property located on the southwest corner of Broadway and Kirby Circle. 2) The proposed new building and grounds will reflect the historic look and feel of the district, with the buyer requesting, receiving and following appropriate guidelines, direction and approval for the design and features from the State of Louisiana Staff architect for the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism, Division of Historic Preservation.3) A provision will be made part of the deed, which will require the owner of the property to obtain advance approval for any future changes and/or additions to the site from the Louisiana Division of Historic Preservation. This provision will be binding for all future owners of the property.4) After construction is completed, the buyer will have signs erected at the location, which describes the historical significance of the site.5) A $50,000 donation will be made to the preservation of Minden's Historic District. The funds will go into a trust to be used for historic preservation and betterment of the City."The Chamber felt very solid that it could pass a resolution of support for this project to continue with the Farleys being able to reject this proposal if they were not in favor of the specific business coming onto their property," said Jason Ebey, Chamber president. "The Chamber is in support of it mainly because we did not want to see the house lost. By accepting the provisions that the Farleys have set out, Minden will not lose one of its landmarks."Ebey said the Chamber believes that the Farleys, in their negotiations, have tried to look out for Minden's best interest."We feel that the Farleys tried to look out for Minden's best interest," said Ebey. "By getting $50,000 in a historical trust, hopefully, additional preservation of other properties will be contagious and we can see revitalization throughout the Historical District and downtown historical Minden."Mayor Bill Robertson was out of town Friday and not available for comment.Tuesday's 6:30 p.m. meeting is open to the public, not just Historic District residents and all interested parties are encouraged to attend.
http://www.nwlanews.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=3895&Itemid=1
to this...
http://www.nwlanews.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=3875&Itemid=1
An editorial about why I feel this way...
http://www.nwlanews.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=3877&Itemid=29
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Historic home could be site of new business
Written by Jana Ryan
Thursday, 26 April 2007
Restoring a historic home, providing a $50,000 trust for the Minden Historic District and preserving the integrity of Minden's historic district are the goals of an unnamed retailer, who wishes to construct a commercial business on the corner of Homer Road and Elm Street.Craig and Mona Farley, whose 104-year-old Greek revival home stands on the site in question, and Brooks Holstein of Retail Net Lease LLC, Florida, confirmed Wednesday that negotiations are underway for the sale of property, located at 101 Homer Road.Two additional property owners, whose land neighbors that of the Farleys, have indicated that they too have been approached about the sale of their land. Both wished to remain anonymous at this time.The location in question is currently zoned R-2 (single family residence). Such an endeavor would require the Minden Regional Planning Commission as well as the Minden City Council to give their nod of approval to rezoning the area to commercial use.According to Craig and Mona Farley, initial attempts by the developer, Retail Net Lease LLC out of Florida, were rebuffed. However, due to the deterioration of their historic home, which is in need of around $150,000 to $200,000 worth of repairs, they decided to listen to what the company had to offer. The Farleys made a list of, for better lack of a word, demands, and up to this point, the developer and its client has been agreeable to all of the specified stipulations.The list includes that the home be moved to property located on the southwest corner of Broadway and Kirby Circle. This effort will only require the removal of one tulip tree. The developer has also assured the Farleys that their client intends to maintain the grounds of the historic homesite and not clear the property of its majestic trees.The parties have also agreed that the proposed new building and grounds will reflect the historic look and feel of the district, with the buyer requesting, receiving and following appropriate guidelines, direction and approval for the design and features from the State of Louisiana Staff architect for the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism, Division of Historic Preservation.A provision will be made part of the deed, which will require the owner of the property to obtain advance approval for any future changes and/or additions to the site from the Louisiana Division of Historic Preservation. This provision will be binding for all future owners of the property.The buyers have also agreed that after construction is completed, it will have signs erected at the location, which describes the historical significance of the site.In addition, the buyer has also agreed to donate $50,000 to the preservation of Minden's Historic District. The funds will go into a trust to be used for historic preservation and betterment of the City."We've asked for some unusual things, but I don't think we've been greedy," said Mona Farley. "We've tried to make it fair for everybody. This is a way to set a precedent, to get something in there that will be maintained for ever and ever in a certain way, get the house fixed and also get $50,000 for historic preservation. You can't hardly beat that."Another provision in the Contract of Purchase and Sell states that prior to the signing of the actual Purchase and Sell Agreement, the buyer will disclose to the Farleys the entity purchasing the property and the specific business that will be constructed at the 101 Homer Road location. The Farleys said if they feel that the specified business will not be conducive at the location, they will pull out of the deal.No contracts have been signed and the Farleys say their property will not be sold if the buyer does not follow through with all of their specified provisions. The project also depends on whether or not agreements can be reached with the other property owners and if the buyers can acquire the support of the City.According to Holstein, the land acquisition project began approximately 60 days ago."We've been actively interested in Minden for well over a year and have evaluated a number of different properties and we felt this was an opportunity to do something beneficial for the landowners, hopefully beneficial for our retailer as well as the city," said Holstein.Holstein said the Farleys have been very clear about their interests and concerns for the quality of life in Minden as well as their commitment to maintain their property and the surrounding area in a "pristine" manner."But, their primary goal was trying to preserve the integrity of their home and insure its longevity," said Holstein.Holstein and each of his partners have been in the development business for 25 years. They also have experience in developing commercial properties within historic districts."I developed a free standing restaurant in Williamsburg, Virginia, which, as you can imagine, has extremely stringent criteria in terms of trying to maintain an economic viable community outside of colonial Williamsburg while at the same time maintaining a sense of place and presence along the Richmond Highway," said Holstein. "This isn't a first time experience for me to do something like this."Holstein said the Williamsburg project was very challenging and the community involvement was a "unique" experience - the same as what is being proposed for the Farley property. "I can assure you we have full support of our retailer to try to find an architecturally aesthetic facility that will compliment the existing public and private structures in the near proximity to the property," said Holstein.According to the developer, one reason for their selection of this particular site was its proximity to downtown Minden."That plays a very big part of it," said Holstein. "We see the viability of downtown - the proximity of other businesses - and downtown is a big part of the long-term redevelopment of most communities. This is a service-oriented business and the more convenient it is, the better they feel that they are as a long-term tenant."At this time, no rezoning requests have come before the Regional Planning Commission or the Minden City Council. However, the Minden-South Webster Chamber of Commerce met Wednesday and agreed to draft a proposition in support of a future commercial site at the Farley home location. Commenting strictly on an economic viewpoint, Jason Ebey, president of the Minden-South Webster Chamber of Commerce said, "Any new retail chain or retail store that were to develop in the Minden area is an absolute positive for our area. The development of jobs and revenue for more sales tax dollars would improve a substantial increase in the economic scope for Minden-South Webster.”"I think it's going to be one of those developments in your city that, over the coming years, your city administration and your elected officials are going to say, 'This is a development where a developer came into town and exceeded our expectations in their willingness to be a part of our community and contribute to our vision rather than detract from our vision of what we're trying to accomplish with Main Street,'" said Holstein.
--------------------------------------
Possible business in Historic District met with opposition
Written by Jana Ryan
Friday, 27 April 2007
Historic District residents and other Minden natives are voicing strong opposition to the proposed construction of a commercial business at the corner of Homer Road and Elm Street.On Thursday, the Minden Press-Herald reported that Retail Net Lease LLC out of Florida has entered into negotiations with Craig and Mona Farley, the owners of the 104-year-old Greek revival home, located at 101 Homer Road, as well as several other neighboring property owners. The firm, working for an unnamed retailer, wishes to construct a commercial business at the site, which is currently zoned R-2 (single family residence).According to the Farleys, initial propositions by the developer were rebuffed; however, due to the deterioration of their historic home, which is in need of around $150,000 to $200,000 worth of repairs, they decided to listen to what the company had to offer. Jackie Lewis, a Historic District resident, who lives with her husband and children at 512 Fort Ave., is spearheading a resistance to a commercial business at the location. By Thursday afternoon, she had composed a letter regarding the issue and she, as well as other Historic District residents were going door to door, spreading the word of the proposed commercial property and encouraging people to attend an emergency meeting to discuss the situation. Not only Historic District residents, but all concerned Mindenites are urged to attend the meeting, which will be held at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 1, at a yet to be determined location."This is a corporation — this isn't, 'Oh, we love downtown Minden and we care about Minden,'" said Lewis. "This is what these people do as a profession. If they want to help out the Historic District and restore things, there are plenty of places they could do this without taking out the most prominent historic downtown home."Properties constructed by Retail Net Lease LLC include Walgreens drug stores, Ruby Tuesday restaurants and Starbucks. At this time, neither the name of the company's client or the type of business involved in the proposal has been released; however, in a previous interview with Brooks Holstein of Retail Net Lease LLC, the proposed business is not a restaurant. For several months prior to Wednesday's confirmation of ongoing negotiations between the property owners and the development company, rumors had been circulating that Walgreens was coming to Minden. Even Mayor Bill Robertson said he had heard rumors, from an unofficial source, that Walgreens was coming to town. However, Walgreens Corporate Spokesperson Carol Hively said last Friday that there is no information in the company's database indicating plans for Minden or Webster Parish. She added that doesn't necessarily mean the company isn't scouting the area.After Lewis learned of the proposed commercial property, she began researching the development company."I researched this a good bit," said Lewis. "Let's say this is a Walgreens - this is something that Walgreens does all the time. They pick the most prominent, historic house or houses and tear them down and put in these businesses, or they say, 'We'll move the house,' or 'We're doing this to restore the house,' but they are not. They are doing this for business. This business may be good for five or 10 years and then what are they going to do with it? It's not good at all for the Historic District."Lewis' research provided information on communities who have fought corporate invasion into Historic Districts."Other communities have fought it and said, 'We don't want that,' so they've (developers) gone downtown and revitalized some of the old abandoned buildings downtown and made a beautiful facade in the front where it blended in it gave them what they wanted," said Lewis. "It was absolutely gorgeous for the town and everybody benefited. We're more than willing to go over proposals and help in any way we can in finding an alternate location, but we just do not feel that (Homer Road and Elm Street) is a proper location for a business — not right there."Lewis has contacted the National Trust for Historic Homes, garnering its support in the fight to keep the Historic District intact.Schelley Brown, executive director of the Dorcheat Historical Association Museum and 2007 president of the Historic Residential Association, said she has talked with Craig and Mona Farley and understands their predicament with having a home that needs repairs; however, she believes a business at that location would be "intrusive" and added, "There are plenty of other places in Minden to do something like that.""As being a part of the Historic District, many of the homes need repairs and many of us can't afford it, but having business come in, when they see that can take advantage of the situation — I just don't see how turning a residential area into commercial property can be good for the residents and for our property values," said Brown. "Everybody who bought a house or lives in the Historic District bought those homes because they wanted that distinction, including Mona and Craig. You bought that house because you loved history and wanted to preserve that part of Minden that is precious to us."On Thursday, the Minden-South Webster Chamber of Commerce adopted a resolution in support of the proposed commercial development at the Homer Road site if the following list of conditions set forth by the Farleys are met:1) The home is moved to property located on the southwest corner of Broadway and Kirby Circle. 2) The proposed new building and grounds will reflect the historic look and feel of the district, with the buyer requesting, receiving and following appropriate guidelines, direction and approval for the design and features from the State of Louisiana Staff architect for the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism, Division of Historic Preservation.3) A provision will be made part of the deed, which will require the owner of the property to obtain advance approval for any future changes and/or additions to the site from the Louisiana Division of Historic Preservation. This provision will be binding for all future owners of the property.4) After construction is completed, the buyer will have signs erected at the location, which describes the historical significance of the site.5) A $50,000 donation will be made to the preservation of Minden's Historic District. The funds will go into a trust to be used for historic preservation and betterment of the City."The Chamber felt very solid that it could pass a resolution of support for this project to continue with the Farleys being able to reject this proposal if they were not in favor of the specific business coming onto their property," said Jason Ebey, Chamber president. "The Chamber is in support of it mainly because we did not want to see the house lost. By accepting the provisions that the Farleys have set out, Minden will not lose one of its landmarks."Ebey said the Chamber believes that the Farleys, in their negotiations, have tried to look out for Minden's best interest."We feel that the Farleys tried to look out for Minden's best interest," said Ebey. "By getting $50,000 in a historical trust, hopefully, additional preservation of other properties will be contagious and we can see revitalization throughout the Historical District and downtown historical Minden."Mayor Bill Robertson was out of town Friday and not available for comment.Tuesday's 6:30 p.m. meeting is open to the public, not just Historic District residents and all interested parties are encouraged to attend.
ONLINE PETITION
We have created an ONLINE petition for those of us against the commercializiation of the Minden Historic RESIDENTIAL District! This is not the same petition that we will have at the emergency meeting on Tuesday night, so make sure that you sign that one! This one is just for the "morale of our troops" and for informative purposes.
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/helpsaveminden/
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/helpsaveminden/
Rezoning Historic Residential Districts... a NATIONAL problem that needs to be investigated!
We're certainly not the first town in America that has ever needed to deal with the issue of preventing a historic residential district from being rezoned for a major corporation. Here are a few websites to show that we're not alone! I found them individually using search engines, but I think that it's high time for people across the nation to realize what is going on to our Residential Historic Districts and call for action against these corporations! These websites are just the tip of the iceberg... there are thousands more just like these!
http://www.nationaltrust.org/issues/chain_drugstores/drugstores_success_stories.html
http://www.nationaltrust.org/magazine/archives/arc_news/120704.htm
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/c/a/2002/08/01/MN133594.DTL&type=printable
http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=17090917&BRD=1653&PAG=461&dept_id=12717&rfi=6
http://www.examiner.com/a-468611~Historic_Chinese_eatery_to_become_a_Walgreens.html
http://www.tiftongazette.com/local/local_story_178221105.html/resources_printstory
http://www.cincinnati-oh.gov/cdap/downloads/cdap_pdf14072.pdf
http://www.eurekawebs.com/cityhall/commdevp/docs/City_PRES_PLAN_final-text.pdf
http://www.nationaltrust.org/issues/downloads/drugstore_rockland_ma.pdf
http://www.northside.net/nba/pdf/NBAmeetingWalgreens060605.pdf
http://www.preservationdirectory.com/HistoricalPreservation/Home.aspx
http://www.jsonline.com/story/index.aspx?id=136614&format=print
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2002/11/25/BA215296.DTL
http://www.metafilter.com/comments.mefi/33664
http://www.neighborhoodlink.com/org/clubextra.html?nclubid=888222976&nid=337570030
http://www.nationaltrust.org/magazine/archives/arc_news/120704.htm
http://www.timesreporter.com/topFive.php?vote=2&Headline=Drug+stores+are+great%3B+so+are+historic+neighborhoods&ID=55465&Category=6
http://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/320808930?ltl=1177742960
http://www.tiftongazette.com/local/local_story_178221105.html
http://www.tiftongazette.com/local/local_story_143223536.html
http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/local/97758_walgreens29.shtml
http://www.historicrockland.org/walgreens_development_plan_targe.htm
http://www.savethecumberland.org/what.htm
http://www.baltimoresun.com/business/chi-030113landmarks1,0,3462980.story?page=6&?track=sto-relcon
http://sg.answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20070310102500AALzs1C
http://www.nationaltrust.org/issues/chain_drugstores/drugstores_success_stories.html
http://www.nationaltrust.org/magazine/archives/arc_news/120704.htm
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/c/a/2002/08/01/MN133594.DTL&type=printable
http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=17090917&BRD=1653&PAG=461&dept_id=12717&rfi=6
http://www.examiner.com/a-468611~Historic_Chinese_eatery_to_become_a_Walgreens.html
http://www.tiftongazette.com/local/local_story_178221105.html/resources_printstory
http://www.cincinnati-oh.gov/cdap/downloads/cdap_pdf14072.pdf
http://www.eurekawebs.com/cityhall/commdevp/docs/City_PRES_PLAN_final-text.pdf
http://www.nationaltrust.org/issues/downloads/drugstore_rockland_ma.pdf
http://www.northside.net/nba/pdf/NBAmeetingWalgreens060605.pdf
http://www.preservationdirectory.com/HistoricalPreservation/Home.aspx
http://www.jsonline.com/story/index.aspx?id=136614&format=print
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2002/11/25/BA215296.DTL
http://www.metafilter.com/comments.mefi/33664
http://www.neighborhoodlink.com/org/clubextra.html?nclubid=888222976&nid=337570030
http://www.nationaltrust.org/magazine/archives/arc_news/120704.htm
http://www.timesreporter.com/topFive.php?vote=2&Headline=Drug+stores+are+great%3B+so+are+historic+neighborhoods&ID=55465&Category=6
http://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/320808930?ltl=1177742960
http://www.tiftongazette.com/local/local_story_178221105.html
http://www.tiftongazette.com/local/local_story_143223536.html
http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/local/97758_walgreens29.shtml
http://www.historicrockland.org/walgreens_development_plan_targe.htm
http://www.savethecumberland.org/what.htm
http://www.baltimoresun.com/business/chi-030113landmarks1,0,3462980.story?page=6&?track=sto-relcon
http://sg.answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20070310102500AALzs1C
Letter from Carolyn Day Smith
As a young girl growing up just a few houses from the historic Stewart (now Farley) home, I spent many hours in the historic district walking to school, church, downtown, and to the homes of friends. The beauty, charm, and history of the area is still a treasure to me.
Since my childhood, the commercial area has rapidly advanced toward Broadway. Now to commercialize the CORNERSTONE, the Stewart home area, is an encroachment on one of Minden's finest treasures. As I see it, money is the primary goal of this change. At my age, nearly 75, money is low on my list of priorities. Preserving treasures is high!
When my father and I used to sit on our front terrace at night to look at constellations- that is a treasured memory. Now with nearby bright lights on the Homer Road, the skies are a blur of red glow. A treasure lost!
How far will commercialization go? Think of the memories of both old and young citizens!
The wrecking ball has taken find old buildings downtown and on Broadway - the old courthouse, First Baptist Church, First United Methodist Church, all of which were no longer adequate for their needs. The historic and magnificent Sandlin house is now a parking lot as a re some other fine homes.
PLEASE, let's spare our cornerstone, the historic Stewart home, where it was built!
Carolyn Day Smith
4-27-2007
Since my childhood, the commercial area has rapidly advanced toward Broadway. Now to commercialize the CORNERSTONE, the Stewart home area, is an encroachment on one of Minden's finest treasures. As I see it, money is the primary goal of this change. At my age, nearly 75, money is low on my list of priorities. Preserving treasures is high!
When my father and I used to sit on our front terrace at night to look at constellations- that is a treasured memory. Now with nearby bright lights on the Homer Road, the skies are a blur of red glow. A treasure lost!
How far will commercialization go? Think of the memories of both old and young citizens!
The wrecking ball has taken find old buildings downtown and on Broadway - the old courthouse, First Baptist Church, First United Methodist Church, all of which were no longer adequate for their needs. The historic and magnificent Sandlin house is now a parking lot as a re some other fine homes.
PLEASE, let's spare our cornerstone, the historic Stewart home, where it was built!
Carolyn Day Smith
4-27-2007
Letter from the Carlisle's
To all this may concern,
My husband and I moved to the Minden Historic District about a year and a half ago. We decided to take the plunge and buy an older home that was on the market. We love working on our older home! It's an honor to be able to do what we do, and it's something that we hold very dear to us. We have no problems with Minden growing at a reasonable rate. We think it would be good for the citizens in terms of jobs, and just spending your money in Minden versus driving to Shreveport or Bossier City means positive things for the town as well. But, when corporations come in and want to plant their roots in an historic district, well, that's just wrong. Could they not build out by Wal-Mart where there are other commercial properties available? We also realize that this location is a prime business location, but it would be ashame if this happened. We don't want to see this piece of history gone. Let us know what we can do to keep this from happening. Is there anything that can be done?
Sincerely,
Mr. & Mrs. Carlisle
My husband and I moved to the Minden Historic District about a year and a half ago. We decided to take the plunge and buy an older home that was on the market. We love working on our older home! It's an honor to be able to do what we do, and it's something that we hold very dear to us. We have no problems with Minden growing at a reasonable rate. We think it would be good for the citizens in terms of jobs, and just spending your money in Minden versus driving to Shreveport or Bossier City means positive things for the town as well. But, when corporations come in and want to plant their roots in an historic district, well, that's just wrong. Could they not build out by Wal-Mart where there are other commercial properties available? We also realize that this location is a prime business location, but it would be ashame if this happened. We don't want to see this piece of history gone. Let us know what we can do to keep this from happening. Is there anything that can be done?
Sincerely,
Mr. & Mrs. Carlisle
What YOU can do now...
It has been widely rumored that Walgreens is the corporation remaining "unnamed" in the quest to take over a large section of our residential historic district. We don't know for sure that it's them, but the firm that has approached the Farley's has a strong history of representing Walgreens.
We ask that everyone call Walgreens corporate (847) 914-2500 and ask for Public Relations and tell them that you are calling from Minden, Louisiana, and that we don’t want a suburban drug store to be built at a critical urban corner in a historic neighborhood that is on the National Register. The "corner of main and main" is listed by the National Trust as one of the most endangered places. Please remember that Walgreens makes it a habit to buy historic residences in historic districts all across the country and turn them into cookie cutter pharmacies. We can make a difference.
PLEASE MAKE SURE THAT YOU STRESS THAT WALGREENS IS WELCOMED IN OUR COMMUNITY, but that you feel that it is inappropriate for them to be located in our residential historic district!
We ask that everyone call Walgreens corporate (847) 914-2500 and ask for Public Relations and tell them that you are calling from Minden, Louisiana, and that we don’t want a suburban drug store to be built at a critical urban corner in a historic neighborhood that is on the National Register. The "corner of main and main" is listed by the National Trust as one of the most endangered places. Please remember that Walgreens makes it a habit to buy historic residences in historic districts all across the country and turn them into cookie cutter pharmacies. We can make a difference.
PLEASE MAKE SURE THAT YOU STRESS THAT WALGREENS IS WELCOMED IN OUR COMMUNITY, but that you feel that it is inappropriate for them to be located in our residential historic district!
Food for Thought...
Every community has their own individual identity based on their history. By preserving this history it sets the community off from the rest of the world showcasing the people and events that made that community what it is. This homogenization of our downtown destroys the unique quality and character and separates us from our past. Homogenization is good for milk but not for historic tourism. Find me someone who visits a city because it has an Eckerd's or McDonald's and I'll show you someone who needs therapy.
National Trust for Historic Preservation Link
From Preservation Online: The magazine of the National Trust for Historic Preservation
http://www.nationaltrust.org/issues/chain_drugstores/
http://www.nationaltrust.org/magazine/archives/arc_news/120704.htm
http://www.nationaltrust.org/issues/chain_drugstores/
http://www.nationaltrust.org/magazine/archives/arc_news/120704.htm
Letter to the Editor / Shreveport Times Coverage
The following letter to the Editor was published in the Minden Press-Herald on Friday, April 27, 2007.
-------------------------
Dear Neighbors,
Being a part of the Minden Historic District is something very, very special. On sunny spring days when I am walking through my home and breathing the fresh, clean air spilling in from the open windows, it’s easy for me to imagine what it must have felt like for the Lowe family to live in this very same house when it was brand new in 1908. When I peer out my windows and see my neighbors planting flowers, walking their dogs, riding bicycles or taking an evening stroll around the block, I know without a doubt that there is no other place in the entire world that I would rather call home. At night before I close my eyes and drift off to sleep, I peek out my bedroom window and admire the view of Mrs. Effie, the gorgeous live oak tree on The Irving’s property next door. It takes very little imagination to realize that this view is certainly much the same today as it was over a hundred years ago.
There’s a very simple pleasure that may be gained by living in the Minden Historic District. These old homes are as American as Apple pie, and it is both my passion and my privilege to live in, restore and protect a little slice of our historic district.
It has been brought to my attention, and to the attention of many other Historic District Residents, that a large corporation is trying to take away a rather large slice of our beautiful Historic District. This corporation has sweetened the pot by making bribes of large donations to “benefit” us, but I ask you to look past their guarantees and see the bigger picture. I believe with all of my heart that by removing one of our most famous and beautiful Historic District homes and replacing it with a cookie-cutter corporate-American business, we will be ripping the heart out of downtown Minden. I am particularly disturbed by the fact that we don’t even know what type of business would replace this poignant home. It is of my opinion that NOTHING could be placed upon that lot that would be as beloved as the Farley home.
I would like to state that I do understand completely why The Farleys would consider this as an option. My husband and I have sunk tens of thousands of dollars into our historic home, and the end of our home improvement projects are nowhere in sight. But these projects are a labor of love. We, like The Farley’s, knew when we bought our home that there is an enormous financial responsibility attached to these properties. Yes, it is certainly expensive to keep these houses updated and structurally sound. And each and every one of us would be tempted if corporate America stepped in and offered us mounds of cash for our land and promised to restore and move our houses across town. But there has to be a line drawn somewhere. Fifty years ago there were historic homes all down Homer Road. Those homes have been replaced by businesses like McDonalds and Burger King. I don’t remember those houses. You might not either. They have been whittled away, one by one, and very few people have noticed that they are disappearing. If we don’t do something about this movement now, our historic district can easily become a thing of the past, but not in a nostalgic sense.
Corporate America is not accidentally knocking at The Farley’s door. Walgreen’s, for instance, has made it common practice to prey upon historic district homes perched on prime RESIDENTIAL property and “relieve” them of the “burden” of restoring their historic homes. The bottom line is that this corporation believes that our community is too sleepy to notice that one of our major landmarks is being removed from the heart of our community.
I highly recommend that you visit the website for The National Trust For Historic Preservation at http://www.nationaltrust.org/issues/chain_drugstores/. When I contacted them concerning this matter, I was very surprised to learn that they have an office set up specifically for dealing with this problem. Did you know that The National Trust For Historic Preservation has called "the Corner of Main and Main" as America’s 4th Most Endangered Historic Place? The movement to move and/or replace our historic homes is not something that is only happening in Minden. Large corporations have pulled this stunt and been wildly successful in many hundreds, if not thousands, of American towns. But it doesn’t have to be this way. WE can take a stand against the invasion of our darling little Historic District! Many other small towns of our size have stood up to these corporations and prevailed. You can find many, many success stories at the following web address: http://www.nationaltrust.org/issues/chain_drugstores/drugstores_success_stories.html.
If it is truly the preservation of history that this corporation is after, then why are they not offering to revive our downtown BUSINESS historic district? I propose that this business find a suitable lot in one of the areas of Minden already zoned for business, preferably our downtown area. I wholeheartedly welcome anyone that wants to invest in Minden, and our community certainly needs the additional jobs that a new business would provide. Together, I believe that we can work out a suitable alternative that will please this corporation and the residents of The Historic District.
There will be a special Historic District meeting held on Tuesday night the 1st of May at 6:30 pm. It will be held at Christopher’s on Main Street in Historic Downtown Minden, just across from Capital One Bank.
If you would like more information, or if you would like to help keep our Historic District intact, please call me at 318-382-8979, email me at lewisfamily1908@bellsouth.net or just stop by our house at 512 Fort Avenue in Minden.
Dear Neighbors,
Being a part of the Minden Historic District is something very, very special. On sunny spring days when I am walking through my home and breathing the fresh, clean air spilling in from the open windows, it’s easy for me to imagine what it must have felt like for the Lowe family to live in this very same house when it was brand new in 1908. When I peer out my windows and see my neighbors planting flowers, walking their dogs, riding bicycles or taking an evening stroll around the block, I know without a doubt that there is no other place in the entire world that I would rather call home. At night before I close my eyes and drift off to sleep, I peek out my bedroom window and admire the view of Mrs. Effie, the gorgeous live oak tree on The Irving’s property next door. It takes very little imagination to realize that this view is certainly much the same today as it was over a hundred years ago.
There’s a very simple pleasure that may be gained by living in the Minden Historic District. These old homes are as American as Apple pie, and it is both my passion and my privilege to live in, restore and protect a little slice of our historic district.
It has been brought to my attention, and to the attention of many other Historic District Residents, that a large corporation is trying to take away a rather large slice of our beautiful Historic District. This corporation has sweetened the pot by making bribes of large donations to “benefit” us, but I ask you to look past their guarantees and see the bigger picture. I believe with all of my heart that by removing one of our most famous and beautiful Historic District homes and replacing it with a cookie-cutter corporate-American business, we will be ripping the heart out of downtown Minden. I am particularly disturbed by the fact that we don’t even know what type of business would replace this poignant home. It is of my opinion that NOTHING could be placed upon that lot that would be as beloved as the Farley home.
I would like to state that I do understand completely why The Farleys would consider this as an option. My husband and I have sunk tens of thousands of dollars into our historic home, and the end of our home improvement projects are nowhere in sight. But these projects are a labor of love. We, like The Farley’s, knew when we bought our home that there is an enormous financial responsibility attached to these properties. Yes, it is certainly expensive to keep these houses updated and structurally sound. And each and every one of us would be tempted if corporate America stepped in and offered us mounds of cash for our land and promised to restore and move our houses across town. But there has to be a line drawn somewhere. Fifty years ago there were historic homes all down Homer Road. Those homes have been replaced by businesses like McDonalds and Burger King. I don’t remember those houses. You might not either. They have been whittled away, one by one, and very few people have noticed that they are disappearing. If we don’t do something about this movement now, our historic district can easily become a thing of the past, but not in a nostalgic sense.
Corporate America is not accidentally knocking at The Farley’s door. Walgreen’s, for instance, has made it common practice to prey upon historic district homes perched on prime RESIDENTIAL property and “relieve” them of the “burden” of restoring their historic homes. The bottom line is that this corporation believes that our community is too sleepy to notice that one of our major landmarks is being removed from the heart of our community.
I highly recommend that you visit the website for The National Trust For Historic Preservation at http://www.nationaltrust.org/issues/chain_drugstores/. When I contacted them concerning this matter, I was very surprised to learn that they have an office set up specifically for dealing with this problem. Did you know that The National Trust For Historic Preservation has called "the Corner of Main and Main" as America’s 4th Most Endangered Historic Place? The movement to move and/or replace our historic homes is not something that is only happening in Minden. Large corporations have pulled this stunt and been wildly successful in many hundreds, if not thousands, of American towns. But it doesn’t have to be this way. WE can take a stand against the invasion of our darling little Historic District! Many other small towns of our size have stood up to these corporations and prevailed. You can find many, many success stories at the following web address: http://www.nationaltrust.org/issues/chain_drugstores/drugstores_success_stories.html.
If it is truly the preservation of history that this corporation is after, then why are they not offering to revive our downtown BUSINESS historic district? I propose that this business find a suitable lot in one of the areas of Minden already zoned for business, preferably our downtown area. I wholeheartedly welcome anyone that wants to invest in Minden, and our community certainly needs the additional jobs that a new business would provide. Together, I believe that we can work out a suitable alternative that will please this corporation and the residents of The Historic District.
There will be a special Historic District meeting held on Tuesday night the 1st of May at 6:30 pm. It will be held at Christopher’s on Main Street in Historic Downtown Minden, just across from Capital One Bank.
If you would like more information, or if you would like to help keep our Historic District intact, please call me at 318-382-8979, email me at lewisfamily1908@bellsouth.net or just stop by our house at 512 Fort Avenue in Minden.
---------------------------------
Preservation, commercialization collide in Minden
May 1, 2007
By Vickie Welborn
The Shreveport Times
MINDEN -- Preservation and commercial development could be on a collision course here as the owners of one of the city's most recognizable century-old homes sitting at the edge of the historic district are being wooed by an undisclosed commercial developer.The controversy that has erupted in recent days since news of the discussions became headlines has left a longtime Minden couple bewildered at the rapid advancement of rumors and half-truths. On the other side, however, are a group of citizens opposed to threats of residential spot zoning who have banded together to force the issue into the open at a public meeting set tonight.
The Minden-South Webster Chamber of Commerce has gotten into the picture by supporting the potential of economic development, but it does so with conditions. Further consideration will be given if conditions change, said Jason E. Ebey, president.Homeowner Mona Farley is uncertain if she and husband, Craig, will attend tonight's meeting. Farley believes the issue has been blown so far out of proportion that no one will listen the facts. And she stresses that no request has been made to the city's zoning board."There's no intent as this point. It was simply a conversation of possibilities that took place that got leaked," Farley said.Retail Net Lease LLC, of Florida, is the company that has expressed interest in the Farley's 2.7 acres and a neighboring sliver of land. The company has not disclosed to the Farleys the identity of the retailer it represents.The Farleys purchased the 104-year-old Greek Revival home from the Stewart family estate in 1995 and have been renovating it ever since. The house is located at the edge of the historic district but is not on the National Register of Historic Places.On April 15, the house and the Farleys were featured on an HGTV show, "If These Walls Could Talk."Strong preservationists with an equally strong pride in their home, the Farleys rebuffed all prior offers at a buy-out. But six months ago they learned their house is in need of "some serious work."Farley said the couple could deplete their retirement funds. It's a responsibility, Farley said, they do not take lightly, but the extent of the work has caused them to be realistic about the future.It's the future that residents such as Jackie Lewis are looking at in the fight of commercial encroachment. Lewis and others have formed Citizens Against Residential Rezoning with a goal of preserving the residential historic district and finding suitable alternatives for the business prospect in commercially zoned areas.Lewis, who along with her family lives in a home built in 1908 that is in the city's historic district, said she knows what it is like to live in and continuously renovate an old home. She understands the temptation to give in to large cash offers, but believes a line should be drawn."This house is the pride and joy of our community," Lewis said of the Farley's home. "There is plenty of room out there for this company to go."Lewis said she is "99 percent certain" the company wanting the Farley's property is Walgreen's.Fortunately, Lewis said, Minden residents will not be caught off-guard.Farley said she and her husband are so mindful of the impact of future development in their neighborhood that they have let the realtor know up front they would not agree to any offer not meeting their demands."I sat down and wrote out a wish list of what I wanted. I consider it a list of outlandish things "» but they are listening," Farley said.Requests include:
Covering the cost of moving the Farley house a block and a half down the boulevard, keeping it in the historic district.
Paying costs of renovating the Farley house.
Retaining the trees and garden effect at the corner of Homer Road.
Placing benches and historic signage on the corner.
Seeking guidance from the Louisiana Division of Historic Preservation on the historic look of the new business.
Purchasing the adjacent property.
Donating $50,000 to the preservation of the Minden Historic District."We were pulling things out of left field. Craig and I were so proud of ourselves that they listened. We felt it was a win-win for everybody ... and then our lives turned upside down," Farley said. Obscene phone calls and unsolicited comments from people in restaurants have been unsettling, she added.Lewis is drumming up support for tonight's meeting through e-mail and a newly created Web site. A blog encourages opponents to sign a petition and opposing letters from other Minden residents.
The Minden-South Webster Chamber of Commerce has gotten into the picture by supporting the potential of economic development, but it does so with conditions. Further consideration will be given if conditions change, said Jason E. Ebey, president.Homeowner Mona Farley is uncertain if she and husband, Craig, will attend tonight's meeting. Farley believes the issue has been blown so far out of proportion that no one will listen the facts. And she stresses that no request has been made to the city's zoning board."There's no intent as this point. It was simply a conversation of possibilities that took place that got leaked," Farley said.Retail Net Lease LLC, of Florida, is the company that has expressed interest in the Farley's 2.7 acres and a neighboring sliver of land. The company has not disclosed to the Farleys the identity of the retailer it represents.The Farleys purchased the 104-year-old Greek Revival home from the Stewart family estate in 1995 and have been renovating it ever since. The house is located at the edge of the historic district but is not on the National Register of Historic Places.On April 15, the house and the Farleys were featured on an HGTV show, "If These Walls Could Talk."Strong preservationists with an equally strong pride in their home, the Farleys rebuffed all prior offers at a buy-out. But six months ago they learned their house is in need of "some serious work."Farley said the couple could deplete their retirement funds. It's a responsibility, Farley said, they do not take lightly, but the extent of the work has caused them to be realistic about the future.It's the future that residents such as Jackie Lewis are looking at in the fight of commercial encroachment. Lewis and others have formed Citizens Against Residential Rezoning with a goal of preserving the residential historic district and finding suitable alternatives for the business prospect in commercially zoned areas.Lewis, who along with her family lives in a home built in 1908 that is in the city's historic district, said she knows what it is like to live in and continuously renovate an old home. She understands the temptation to give in to large cash offers, but believes a line should be drawn."This house is the pride and joy of our community," Lewis said of the Farley's home. "There is plenty of room out there for this company to go."Lewis said she is "99 percent certain" the company wanting the Farley's property is Walgreen's.Fortunately, Lewis said, Minden residents will not be caught off-guard.Farley said she and her husband are so mindful of the impact of future development in their neighborhood that they have let the realtor know up front they would not agree to any offer not meeting their demands."I sat down and wrote out a wish list of what I wanted. I consider it a list of outlandish things "» but they are listening," Farley said.Requests include:
Covering the cost of moving the Farley house a block and a half down the boulevard, keeping it in the historic district.
Paying costs of renovating the Farley house.
Retaining the trees and garden effect at the corner of Homer Road.
Placing benches and historic signage on the corner.
Seeking guidance from the Louisiana Division of Historic Preservation on the historic look of the new business.
Purchasing the adjacent property.
Donating $50,000 to the preservation of the Minden Historic District."We were pulling things out of left field. Craig and I were so proud of ourselves that they listened. We felt it was a win-win for everybody ... and then our lives turned upside down," Farley said. Obscene phone calls and unsolicited comments from people in restaurants have been unsettling, she added.Lewis is drumming up support for tonight's meeting through e-mail and a newly created Web site. A blog encourages opponents to sign a petition and opposing letters from other Minden residents.
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