Liberty Business Owner Seeks Halt to Demolishing City Buildings
Liberty City Council Moves Forward with Demolitions despite Opposition
The city council of Liberty, Missouri, recently voted in favor of a third demolition within a year, garnering much criticism from local business owners, including Jennifer McGuire, owner of The Parlor, a boutique situated adjacent to the building scheduled for demolition.
Downtown Charm Challenged by Rapid Changes
Home to a diverse array of 19th-century buildings, downtown Liberty has always held a unique charm for business owners. Drawn to the area’s aesthetically pleasing architectural design, Jennifer McGuire thought she had found the perfect location for her boutique. However, the council’s latest decision threatens to not only alter the look and feel of the area but also severely affect local businesses.
Having lost approximately $70,000 in sales due to previous demolitions and their consequent constructions, McGuire is deeply worried about her store’s future. She shared, “When the fence went up, the traffic died. No new customers, no new anything.”
Historical Impact Considered
The issue started when a local building collapsed in 2016, causing nearby 7 and 9 N. Water Street buildings to deteriorate. The city bought these properties for $1, assuming they were unlikely to attract investment. Following a thorough inspection, the buildings were demolished due to lack of structural integrity and perceived risk to community safety.
Now, the city is planning the demolition of a third building, once again asserting its unappealing aesthetic and lack of historical presence as reasons. Positioned adjacent to McGuire’s boutique, the demolition and reconstruction of 11 N. Water Street building raises significant concerns for local business owners.
Council Responds to Business Owners’ Concerns
In response to mounting opposition, Liberty Mayor Greg Canuteson ensured unwavering support for local businesses despite the ongoing changes. He emphasized, “We’re going to do everything we can legally do to help business owners in downtown Liberty. We want them to thrive here.”
New Developments and Future Prospects
Liberty city is in the midst of developing a comprehensive redevelopment plan, likely comprising additional retail spaces, eateries, and residential units. The council is set to release an exclusive vision report within the forthcoming months, outlining detailed proposals for the city’s development.
Despite the assurance from city officials, local businesses such as The Parlor are dealing with significant financial losses and uncertain futures. Expressing her concerns, McGuire said, “This is not only what do we do with the business? It’s what do we do with ourselves?”
With ongoing developments and continued dialogue between the council and business owners, only time will tell what the future holds for downtown Liberty.
