AUSTIN, Texas — A vacant building sits at the intersection of East 12th and Comal Street in East Austin, and there's a battle over whether it should stay put or be knocked down.
On Sept. 4, the Austin Historic Landmark Commission unanimously signed off on the recommendation of making the property a landmark after the real estate developer, Eureka Holding, applied for a demolition permit.
The building, located at 1500 East 12th St., has stood for more than 100 years. According to the 2016 East Austin Historic Resource Survey, it was built around 1910, but there are records that indicate its address may go as far back as 1889.
Preservation Austin Policy & Outreach Planner Meghan King explained that the history and significance of the building is "undeniable."
"This is really an important corner in East Austin that deserves -- it deserves careful attention," said King, "It shouldn't be demolished for a vacant lot."
King noted how people who immigrated from Germany and African-American businessmen set up shop throughout the years. The property was once a barbershop, a saloon and, at one point, a place for The Gamma Eta Alpha chapter of the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity.
However, it has sat vacant for quite sometime.
"Preservation can be a really powerful tool," said King. "It really just requires investment and for someone to care."
Nick Sandlin spoke before the landmark commission on Sept. 4 and stated his opposition toward the preservation. Sandlin represents Eureka Holdings and is the engineer who applied for the demolition permit.
"The building at 1500 E 12th St. presents too many safety hazards to remain, has far less historical value than the staff reports indicates and far more public benefits can be gained by enabling safe demolition," Sandlin said during the meeting.
Through a letter sent to the commission on July 1, Sandlin reiterating the safety aspect of keeping the building standing, stating, "Due to the considerable risk to the health, safety and welfare of the public, it is our professional duty to inform you of the importance that this demolition plan be approved."
KVUE reached out to Eureka Holdings on Thursday, but did not receive a response by the time of publication.
The owners, however, did submit a letter to the commission that voiced their opposition.
The next step is for the case to head to Austin's Planning Commission and City Council. According to a Historic Preservation Officer, council members will ultimately decide whether the property will be designated as a landmark.