County asks city to pause Thelma Bolton Center demolition, seeks historic review

Alachua County commissioners voted to ask the City of Gainesville for a 90-day pause on the scheduled demolition of the Thelma Bolton Center and to refer the site to the county—s Historic Advisory Board for review and funding options.

The decision followed more than an hour of public comment from longtime residents and preservation advocates who urged the county to use or recover the $1,500,000 previously committed from the county—s Wild Spaces Public Places fund rather than let the city demolish the 1940s servicemen—s building. "This is the East Wing," said Melanie Barr, identifying herself at the podium and describing the center—s role as a servicemen—s recreation facility in the 1940s. "This building can be restored. Please ask them to hold off while we look for someone to take it."

Others recounted the building—s cultural role and pushed for a local nonprofit to assume stewardship. Betsy Maloney Hurst, a Duck Pond resident, said earlier architectural assessments and limited interventions could have stabilized the building at far lower cost than the city—s demolition estimate of $450,000–$600,000. "The city has neglected this building," she said.

Commissioners acknowledged the county had been a partner in a joint project and expressed frustration that they were not kept fully informed by city staff. Commissioner Cornell moved a letter asking the city to pause demolition for 90 days and to refer the matter to the county—s Historic Advisory Board and staff to pursue any grant or military funding opportunities; the motion carried 4 to 1. The board did not vote to reallocate the $1.5 million at the meeting; members said staff should investigate grant or federal funding possibilities and report back.

Why it matters: Thelma Bolton Center is a locally significant historic resource in the Duck Pond neighborhood; residents warned that demolition would erase community heritage and urged the county to use its prior funding commitment to preserve the structure. The 90-day pause is intended to create breathing room for the city and county to explore alternatives and for local groups to form a preservation plan.

What—s next: Staff will draft and send the chair—s letter to the City of Gainesville asking for the pause and will ask the county—s Historic Advisory Board to review potential funding sources, stabilization options and grant opportunities; the item will return to the board with staff findings.

Quote: "If you don't think you can use it, then just hold on to it and find nonprofits that can use it," Paula Stamer told commissioners during the public comment period.

Speakers quoted (whitelist): ["Melanie Barr","Betsy Maloney Hurst","Paula Stamer","Tamara Robbins","Commissioner Cornell","Chair"].

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