While this may not be the result we intended, it did put the Lubbe House in the public discussion. As Commissioner Sheehan stated, staff had admitted to her that concepts for the Lake Eola Southwest gateway was to demolish the Lubbe House. Apparently staff had not shared this with the Mayor. There was no previous public declaration to save the house until she made it public. Though it is encouraging to hear Mayor Dyer state 'the Lubbe House will not be demolished', the door is left open for the CRA's structural assessment. Their printed response keeps mentioning the possibility of "asbestos" without any substantiation. It is important to note that asbestos was not widely common until the 1940s, in particular in residential application. Should the CRA's hired inspection agency's finding determine any threats the CRA can apply for immediate demolition without any public review. This would be similar to what happened to the historic McCrory's/Woolworth Building on Orange Ave where the Plaza now sits.

It is ironic that the Mayor and Council would leave the potential for millions of dollars in state and private grants on the table while claiming 'high costs' for rehabilitating the structure. There are currently no plans that support their claim.

Until the plans for the Gateway are final it is important for the public to stay involved. Commissioner Sheehan was able to have 2 public comment meetings included in the design phase. Once the dates are determined we will publish them so you may participate.

Additionally OPT has applied for consideration to the 2026 Florida Trust for Historic Preservation's list of Florida's 11 to Save. Determination will be in June.

A big THANK YOU to all who contacted the Mayor, Commissioners and planning staff and to those who attended the preservation board and city council meetings.