Sarasota should save another piece of its history

Taxpayers and those concerned about saving at least some of the history of Sarasota's beginnings have a chance to prevent yet another demolition — this time of the 1912 McAlpin house on Cross Street in downtown Sarasota. 

The developer, Orange Pineapple, LLC purchased a 3-acre lot knowing this house was on the local Historic Register, and it had been approved to be moved to a previous developer. It is in good condition and could be moved to a corner of this lot and be repurposed. The city is in the final stages of vacating and giving the developer all of Cross Street for free. This adds nearly a half-acre to the site.

The Historic Preservation Board and the city staff have all given their veto vote and report for denial of this demolition request. The Sarasota City Commission hears this request again on Monday, May 6. You may show your support for saving the McAlpin house by contacting the city commissioners. 

— Nancy DeForge, Nokomis