KANSAS CITY, MO (KCTV) -
Kansas City is well known for its abundance of historic buildings, each with a unique story to tell. But as the city grows and becomes more modern, many say too often those buildings are destroyed before anyone has a chance to save them.
Now, one city councilman wants to protect the city's rich history.
Back in 2009 the Historic Kansas City Foundation tried to save a home at West 63rd Street and Ward Parkway. However, they ran out of time, and that is why they are supporting a proposal trying to prevent more empty lots from popping up across the city.
"One of the sad truths is there are so many times someone says, 'if I only knew that building was going to be torn down, I could have done something about that,'" Councilman Scott Wagner said.
Under current law, a property owner can apply for a demolition permit and destroy the building, even if a third party is trying to get an historic designation on the structure.
Wagner wants to create a system that suspends demolition until a ruling can be made on the property.
"Any city that embraces its history, generally, is a city that attracts people to it. Whether it is for tourism or residence or business," Wagner said.
Wagner cites the old Cosby Hotel near West Ninth Street and Baltimore Avenue as the perfect example. It was the first multi-floor building in the city but was slated for demolition in 2010.
Once word got out the city helped save the building, it is now getting a second chance.
"We not only found you could save the building for less cost, but someone is renovating the property, so it will be an asset for the city," Wagner said.
Wagner expects there could be some push back to the plan, but he is hoping everyone will see the value in preserving the city's oldest assets.
If approved, the plan does not cover dangerous buildings. Those set for emergency demolition will be taken down on schedule.
Wagner is still working out the details on how long the waiting period will last. The proposal goes before committee in two weeks.
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