Centennial AME Zion Church at 125 Doane Street approved as local landmark

The Committee on Legislation approved a local landmark designation for the Centennial AME Zion Church at 125 Doane Street on Feb. 10, 2026, after a presentation by Preservation Buffalo Niagara and testimony from congregation members.

Emily Jarnot of Preservation Buffalo Niagara told the committee she was presenting the landmark nomination for the “Centennial AME Zion Church,” describing its 1911 Gothic Revival–style construction, a prominent bell tower and a large stained-glass window. “This church is a visual stunner on this corner,” Jarnot said, and she reviewed the building’s history, earlier community uses and recent preservation work led by Pastor Patricia Buford.

Longtime members spoke in support during the public hearing. “I have been a member of Centennial since 1979,” Anita Garner said, describing the church’s role in raising families and hosting programs such as lunch kitchens and youth choirs. Kenneth Taylor, another parishioner, said the church “was busy every day of the week” and credited congregational leadership for sustained outreach and community services.

Council members who spoke praised the nomination and preservation efforts. A committee member clarified for the record that the agenda item was a public hearing on a local landmark designation rather than a special use permit. After comments, the committee voted to approve the landmark designation.

The designation preserves the building’s architectural features and recognizes its century-long community role, and committee members said the action supports ongoing renovations and outreach programs at the church. No vote tally was recorded in the transcript; motions were seconded and recorded as approved in the meeting sequence. The committee took up other licensing and zoning items after the vote.