Council tables demolition of Maple Avenue fire station after appeals to preserve historic building

Council members removed the demolition of the former Maple Avenue fire station (agenda item 25‑30‑23) from the consent agenda and later voted to table the demolition pending further review and alternative options.

Public commenter Angie Hilliard told the council she supports the Galesburg Fire Department and urged preservation of the structure, which she said dates to 1907: "I know that you guys are voting tonight to demolish the Maple Street, fire station... it was originally used when they had horse drawn carriages." After public comment, Council member Miller moved to remove the demolition item from consent and later moved to table it, saying he went by the building and believed it was in "very good condition" and that the city should explore reuse and preservation as part of Galesburg’s history. Council member Cheeseman seconded the tabling motion; the clerk recorded a 6-0 vote to table the item until the next meeting.

The decision delays authorization to demolish and directs staff to gather alternatives and public input. The council received emails and audience comments in favor of considering preservation; no formal redevelopment plan or funding was adopted at the meeting.