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Board directs staff to demolish Schroeder House, citing condition and cost
Summary
After inspection showed broken windows, apparent break‑ins and possible habitation, the Amherst County Board voted to direct staff to demolish the Schroeder House at 102 Mountain View Drive and to remove debris, while expressing desires to preserve historical context in future site use.
County staff reported the Schroeder House had multiple broken windows, evidence of break‑ins and signs someone may have been living in the vacant structure. Maintenance and parks staff boarded up the building and recommended options set out in the parks and recreation master plan, which included possible removal.
Supervisors debated the house's historic value versus the estimated cost of restoration. Mr. Martin argued for preservation where feasible and asked that the cleared site be returned to green space rather than converted to parking. Others, including Mr. Pew and Mr. Wade, said the building's condition and likely cost to repair would not be a prudent use of taxpayer dollars.
Mr. Wade moved to direct staff to demolish the dwelling at 102 Mountain View Drive in the town of Amherst; the board voted in favor and at least one supervisor (Mr. Martin) recorded a dissenting vote. Staff said they can remove the structure and dispose of materials at the landfill and that the parks master plan contains options for future site design, including a pocket park.
