6.g - 1500 E 12th St - public comment — original pdf

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From: Subject: Date: Urgent: Opposition to Demolition of 1500 E. 12th St. and Support for Historic Preservation in East Austin Wednesday, September 4, 2024 2:41:31 PM You don't often get email from . Learn why this is important External Email - Exercise Caution Dear Historic Landmark Commission, As a Black woman who grew up in East Austin, with family roots blocks away from the property in question, I am writing to express my strong opposition to the demolition of the building at 1500 E. 12th St. I firmly believe that tearing down this building, along with any properties acquired by Endeavor, will be yet another loss for the Black community in East Austin. The developer may benefit financially from such actions, but our community will lose much more—our culture, history, and sense of place. I understand that at the last Historic Landmark Commission (HLC) meeting, there was a discussion surrounding the potential demolition. While concerns about the building's recent past may exist, this should not overshadow its historical and cultural significance. Our community has already faced decades of displacement, and this property holds a deep connection to the fabric of East Austin’s Black heritage. The entire street of 12th does. Its demolition would represent another step in the erasure of that legacy. Especially for a development firm that owns most of the 12th Street corridor. Preservation Austin has rightly spoken in favor of granting the building a historic designation, a move that I fully support. At a time when gentrification continues to reshape East Austin, it is critical that we preserve the places that reflect the richness of our community’s contributions and struggles. The cultural importance of this corner, especially in relation to other landmarks such as the Southgate-Lewis and IQ Hurdle Houses, cannot be understated. This building deserves to be honored, not destroyed. I know that some community members may have voiced support for the demolition due to the site’s recent history, but I implore you to consider the longer arc of this building’s existence and the value it holds for generations to come. Additionally, the individuals in favor of the demolition do not represent the views of the entire black community. It’s important to consider what those voices may stand to gain from supporting this development with the developer and how their interests may differ from the broader concerns of preserving our cultural heritage. I urge you to take this step in protecting it. By doing so, you are helping to safeguard the Black heritage of East Austin and ensuring that future generations have a physical reminder of their roots, even in the face of rapid change. With much appreciation, -- Miriam Conner Founder Creative Policy Culture | Community | Collaboration CAUTION: This is an EXTERNAL email. Please use caution when clicking links or opening attachments. If you believe this to be a malicious or phishing email, please report it using the "Report Message" button in Outlook. For any additional questions or concerns, contact CSIRT at "cybersecurity@austintexas.gov".