| “As were many throughout the community, we were disappointed by the Albany-Dougherty Historic Preservation Commission’s July 12 opposition to the Living and Learning Center, a $40 million project between Phoebe Putney Health System and Albany Technical College that would create an innovative health professions education and training facility and resurrect life, interest and purpose to the long-since closed former Albany Middle School.
That the HPC would, after a unanimous August 16 overruling by the Albany City Commission, immediately file an intent to pursue legal action in Dougherty County Superior Court to appeal the city’s decision raises question as to the appointed group’s discernment.
Albany cannot move forward with one foot on the gas and the other on the brake. The Albany Area Chamber, representing nearly 800-member businesses and community organizations, respectfully requests that the HPC withdraw its appeal. Further, we encourage the commission to re-examine its perspective and to wield its authority in such a way that utilizes historic preservation as a pragmatic tool that helps Albany build a bright future.”
Read the full position letter here. |
