Prospective buyer asks whether historic schoolhouse must remain; county staff says private owners can remove unlisted structures
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Summary
Resident Brian Kunkle asked whether a one‑room schoolhouse on a 2.5‑acre parcel must be preserved if he builds a new house; county representative said properties on private land even on a register can be demolished by their owners absent specific restrictions, and staff will check historic‑register listings for confirmation.
A member of the public, Brian Kunkle, appeared during public comment to ask whether a historic schoolhouse on a property he is considering purchasing must be kept if he constructs a new primary dwelling.
Kunkle said the schoolhouse has no septic or water and is in poor condition and asked whether the presence of two dwellings on the lot would require him to retain the schoolhouse. “If I build a new house, do I have to keep the schoolhouse?” he asked. Several commissioners and a county representative identified as Andy said there is no absolute prohibition on demolition by a private owner even if a building appears on a historic list; such listing typically adds paperwork but does not by itself prevent an owner from demolishing the structure when no legal restriction or funding covenant applies.
County representative Andy said he would have staff with historic‑preservation expertise (Jenna) check whether the building appears on any official register and report back. “If it’s on private property, the owner of the property can demolish it at will,” Andy said, while adding that some listings or grant conditions can add constraints. Commissioners advised Kunkle to confirm whether any state or federal register listing or historic covenant applies and to factor required permits (and DEP notifications in the case of larger commercial demolitions) into his plans.
Kunkle said he may restore the building if it proves feasible but is concerned about cost and proximity of neighbors; planning staff said they would follow up with county preservation staff to confirm any listing and advise on permits.
What’s next: Staff will check historic‑register status and advise the resident; if demolition is contemplated and the structure is large or commercial, DEP notification and asbestos checks may be required.