After a structural engineer said the building was in imminent danger of collapsing, the council approved an emergency declaration that includes a $58,564 demolition contract.
After a second inspection declared the Blue Streak building unsafe, Hopkinsville City Council will meet Tuesday to decide whether to order its demolition. The report has sparked public outcry and renewed debate over how to balance safety and preservation downtown.
Advocates for saving the East Ninth Street building told the mayor and council members that professionals in historic properties ought to be consulted, too.
Hoptown Chronicle's letter writers have covered many topics, including legislative redistricting, disagreements about school funding, problems with panhandling, how old American flags are properly retired, the health department’s response to the pandemic, the benefits of Hopkinsville’s rail-trail, nonpartisan elections and the occasional “thank you” from a nonprofit to the community.
Jeff Siegler, who has assisted hundreds of communities with their revitalization, outlined five recommendations for Hopkinsville during a talk Wednesday in council chambers.
