A request for a permit to demolish the old East Middle School building will be taken up at the next meeting of the Leavenworth Preservation Commission.
The meeting is scheduled for 5 p.m. Sept. 1 at Leavenworth City Hall, 100 N. Fifth St., according to Chris Dunn, director of planning and community development for the city.
The permit to tear down the old East Middle School building, 400 Chestnut St., is being sought by the building’s owner, First United Methodist Church. The church is located next door the former school.
The former school building opened in 1933, initially serving as a high school, according to information presented by the Leavenworth school district at the time East Middle School closed.
The church purchased the building in 2000.
A letter attached to the application for the demolition permit states church officials want to “improve, expand and enhance” their facilities and tearing down the old school building will provide the space and flexibility to meet their needs.
“We are well aware of the historical significance of the area and the surrounding buildings,” the letter states. “Our intent is to improve our sanctuary building, located at 422 Chestnut Street.”
If the Leavenworth Preservation Commission denies the permit, the matter still could be brought before the Leavenworth City Commission, according to Dunn.
