Historic Landmark Designations for Closed East Side Churches

Representing the Catholic Diocese, he spoke against the landmark designations, arguing the city didn't consult them, that the buildings' future is governed by church law, and that the move threatens First Amendment rights.

Spoke in support of designating the properties on the national register/local landmark list in memory of his late wife.

Living near Sacred Heart, she noted it would be a big loss if torn down, but expressed concern that city-owned vacant properties nearby sit neglected and worried about the building becoming an eyesore or homeless hangout.

Speaking as a community builder for East Toledo, he supported saving Sacred Heart as an iconic neighborhood anchor and read a statement from former parishioner C.J. Estelle detailing offers made to buy and repurpose the church.

A parishioner married in Sacred Heart 67 years ago, he argued that foundation and wall issues are repairable by managing water intrusion rather than tearing the building down.

A descendant of the general contractor who built Sacred Heart, he questioned the diocese's inflated repair estimates and urged the commission to protect the historic structure.

As founder of an inclusive arts nonprofit, she shared her past interest in turning the property into an arts and music therapy center and supported saving the building.

Another descendant of the church's builders, he urged the commission to designate both churches as landmarks, comparing them to historic buildings worth saving for future generations.

An East Toledo resident, he supported landmark status for Good Shepherd due to its unique architectural dome, while expressing neighborhood opposition to homeless shelters.