#SaveJusticeBlackProperty

Please reject the proposed construction and demolition on the Justice Black property. Old Town is special because it is preserved. If the property's owners cannot support the easement Justice Black intended, they should sell and move to an unprotected part of the metro area where new homes offer the modern amenities they seek. City Council members, just say no!

We need to retain the historic structures of Old Town. Inside alterations are fine, but exterior changes should be denied, especially in a property granted a tax-benefit easement. Old Town retains its original character (and tourist “draw”) because we are attentive to protecting our architectural heritage!

City Council must step up to its responsibility and authority to be the steward of this very important component of the Old and Historic Alexandria District by rejecting the proposed new structures and maintaining the open space that is an essential defining characteristic of it.

Dear Mayor Wilson, Vice Mayor Bennett-Parker and City Council. The Mayor of Charleston warned us many years ago that a city gets what it demands. Charleston remains protected while Alexandria is in danger of losing its unique and special identity. You can be the city government that restores the integrity of preserving historic properties. And in this case protects valuable open space, as well. Linda Couture

So many historic properties have been razed down over the years. Please save this one. The City has been accommodating developers to the detriment of our heritage.

I think the historical integrity should be kept. The owners knew when they bought the house that they were buying a property with historical value that had restrictions. Any success in convincing the City to allow them to violate those rules now would set a bad example.

As an architectural historian and historic preservationist, I oppose these proposed changes to the Justice Hugo Black house and property. As the former National Register of Historic Places Coordinator for the State of Oregon, the designation relies upon local jurisdiction’s zoning and ordinances to protect and preserve the historic and architectural integrity of these significant properties. Allowing these changes does not provide such intended protection. Additionally with the open space easement, that has been in place for decades, and likely has provided homeowners with tax deductions or credits, allowing construction in the designated open space should never be allowed. I urge you to reject the plan for partial demolition and new construction in preserved open space. Sincerely, Nancy Niedernhofer

Please honor the law and preserve the open space land act of 1966. Our city thrives on its historic character and our government should work to preserve and promote this unique aspect for the good of our city and its people.

The fact this case has gotten as far as it has is symptomatic of an even bigger problem, a city hall that ignores rules, regulations and laws, even its own, in pursuit of more density and development.

This is an important historic landmark and important for Alexandria to preserve as much of its history as possible.

Seems shameful that the BAR that has done a good job protecting the integrity of the city, would, in one move trash years of precedent and sell out.

If there is indeed a covenant signed re: the preservation of that open space , then that should be honored. I have lived here almost 40 yrs now and to see someone with what would appear to be limitless funds to pay attorneys to do what they feel entitled to do is a slap in the face to the meaning of these documents. We are all brief stewards of these properties in the history of this treasure of our city. I own property next to the house next to the cabinet maker's house that built George Washington and Martha's coffin . That property was completely desecrated 25 years ago by someone who lied to the BAR while serving ON it, so that he could demolish most of the structure to build a fake flounder to house his car collection. Not only is he gone , but so is this historic treasure - - forever. Profoundly sad.

Old Town is a historic district. Please, Mayor and City Council - though we are keenly aware that none of you live here thus care not - please preserve the charming character of this gem of a city. Perhaps it IS time for Wards so we can ensure the OTCA work is heard. Do the right thing! Lauren Kramer

Please preserve historic buildings.

Please, preserve our historic homes, and stop putting up highrises,modern hotels and condos.

Do not let our history be bulldozed.

This would be a disgrace. A new council has been elected as every elector was fed up with the habits of the old one. Lets not repeat the mistakes of the past.

The Hugo Black house and grounds are one of Alexandria's crown jewels. Council's interpretation and application of our Historic District Preservation Ordinance governs. If they can't protect this extraordinary piece of our heritage, then the ordinance is essentially vitiated.

The open space easement executed by Justice Black must be honored. DHR approval of the encroachments was administratively erroneous, both substantively and procedurally.

Do the right thing and save this property