07/03/2025
From today's The Kansas City Star regarding the Historic Preservation Commission's recommending in favor--and Valentine Neighborhood Association support of--the Norman School Historic District nomination:
Supporters include Anna Seydel of the neighborhood association, who lives in the proposed district. She told the preservation commission that she was drawn to the neighborhood by the opportunity to live in a well-built and character-rich home. Seydel has been inspired by the strong sense of community among her neighbors. The local historic status would provide stability and reassurance in what makes Valentine special, Seydel said, while attracting investment and inspiring pride.
“Architecture, the scale, the history, all of that’s protected,” she said. “It really gives us all of the confidence that future development will respect and reflect the unique character that we’ve all chosen to be part of.”
The KC Life demolitions have raised concerns that the wrecking ball could go further south, into the Norman School area, Seydel said, further threatening the neighborhood. Supporters want a safeguard. “We are not against responsible and thoughtful development. We welcome collaboration with developers who share our vision of enhancing what already makes this neighborhood very special,” she said. “Local historic designation does not prevent redevelopment. Instead, it helps guide it intentionally.”
Read more at the link below:
Supporters say the historic district would have benefits beyond staving off demolitions, while opponents say it could stymie development while raising costs for homeowners.
