Three historic preservation organizations have filed an appeal challenging the City of Des Moines’ Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) for the proposed demolition of the former Masonic Home, also known as Landmark on the Sound.
The Citizens for the Protection of Des Moines’ Historic Resources, the Des Moines Historical Society and the Washington Trust for Historic Preservation contend the city’s July 31 FEIS for the Zenith Properties demolition permit is inadequate and violates the State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA).
Filed on Friday, Aug. 8 with the city’s hearing examiner, the appeal seeks to have the FEIS withdrawn and revised.
The groups are represented by Bricklin & Newman, LLP of Seattle.
The appellants argue that the city’s environmental review improperly “piecemealed” its analysis by only considering the impacts of demolition without assessing the probable redevelopment of the 27-acre property. They cite state law requiring review of closely related proposals as a single course of action.
They also allege the FEIS:
- Defined the project’s purpose too narrowly, limiting consideration of reasonable alternatives.
- Failed to study alternatives such as adaptive reuse, affordable housing or institutional uses compatible with existing zoning.
- Overestimated the costs of preserving and reusing the historic structure.
- Did not adequately analyze impacts on historic and cultural resources, tree canopy, recreation, wildlife habitat, and potential landslide risks.
“The Masonic Home is clearly a historic site of great importance,” the appeal states, noting it is eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places and could qualify as its own historic district. “Demolition would erase a community landmark and the surrounding gardens, trails and forested areas that have served as a de facto public park for nearly a century.”
They are asking the hearing examiner to direct the city to revise the FEIS so it complies with SEPA and includes a full range of alternatives and environmental impacts.
No date has been set for the appeal hearing.
