Demolition cleared for last house blocking Helias expansion

The final property in the way of Helias High School's expansion project was released for demolition by Jefferson City's Historic Preservation Commission on Tuesday.

The occupant left Friday, which allowed the owners to provide photos as required by the commission. Although the paperwork arrived after the deadline for Tuesday's meeting, the commissioners agreed to review the demolition application.

The 1954-built property is similar to the other properties, which already have been released for demolition.

"You'll find nothing surprising or out of the ordinary from one to the next," spokesman Ed Twehous said.

The commissioners encouraged donation of salvaged items to River City Habitat for Humanity. Twehous said Helias faculty will have first option at items.

In other business, the commission:

Discussed a commission walking tour of the abandoned buildings along the Capitol Avenue area.

Learned the subcommittee reviewing the ordinance for possible amendment has outlined boundaries of the city's historic area and has requested the city GIS department to develop a map for review.

Announced three members' terms will be up in December.