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Council revokes landmark designation for Crystal Lake Academy building after preservation group declines timeline
Summary
The Crystal Lake City Council voted to revoke landmark status for the historic Crystal Lake Academy building at 210 McHenry Ave. after the community group said it could not meet council conditions for relocation or a long‑term lease; the council asked the church and volunteers to salvage architectural items where possible.
The Crystal Lake City Council voted on Dec. 2 to revoke landmark designation for the Crystal Lake Academy building at 210 McHenry Avenue after a community group said it could not meet a council deadline to arrange moving the structure or a long‑term lease arrangement.
City staff summarized prior council actions on Oct. 21, when council members approved landmarking the iron fence and later approved landmarking the building with conditions tied to a timeline for relocation or other protective measures. At this meeting, volunteers and preservation advocates reiterated the site's historical importance. One petitioner described the Academy gates and Tarpley House as unique artifacts and urged preservation, saying the building "is the most historic building in Crystal Lake." (petitioner comment)
Representatives of Trinity Church, which currently owns the property, said a long‑term lease or moving the building was not feasible for the church. Craig Crannell, speaking on the church's behalf, told council the church had explained the practical and financial constraints and asked the council to move forward: "It just can't do what they wanna do." The church representatives said they had not seen the promised large donations or fundraising commitments needed to make relocation or long‑term stewardship possible.
Council members thanked volunteers and church leaders for their efforts and expressed regret at the outcome. Several members acknowledged the time and research volunteers had contributed and requested documentation and salvage of significant architectural pieces where possible. Councilmember Speaker 7 moved—and Speaker 8 seconded—an ordinance to revoke the landmark status for the Crystal Lake Academy building; the motion passed by roll call.
Outcome: The council approved an ordinance revoking landmark status for 210 McHenry Avenue. Council members asked that the church and volunteers be notified in advance of any demolition or removal activity so historically significant materials can be salvaged and catalogued. The council also discussed placing a commemorative plaque near the Church Street sidewalk.
