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Council designates Dunbar School a local historic landmark
Summary
The Lexington City Council unanimously adopted an ordinance designating the old Dunbar School at 301 Smith Avenue as a local historic landmark after a Historic Preservation Commission recommendation and staff review.
Lexington City Council on Feb. 2025 unanimously adopted Ordinance O005-2025 to designate the old Dunbar School at 301 Smith Avenue as a local historic landmark.
City planner Josh Monk presented the landmark nomination and described the review steps: applicant-prepared landmark report, Historic Preservation Commission review, State Historic Preservation Office review and a public hearing before the council. Monk told the council the commission found the property “held special significance” and that it “retains its integrity,” and that the commission unanimously recommended designation after a January public hearing and prior review in November.
Council held the public hearing, received no in-person comments, and moved to adopt the ordinance. Councilman Curry moved the ordinance and Councilman Holloway seconded; the motion passed with no recorded opposition.
Staff said the signed ordinance and the updated landmark report will be submitted to the State Historic Preservation Office after the mayor signs the document. The designation accompanies an earlier conditional zoning application for renovation of the building into apartments and mixed uses; the council and staff noted the landmark decision aligns with prior planning work on the property.
