Condition of Geneva blacksmith shop main topic at recent hearing

Geneva cited the Shodeen Foundation for failing to maintain historic building's exterior

Author

Sam Kraft
September 23, 2024 • Estimated Reading Time: 2 minutes

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The historic blacksmith shop in Geneva, dating back to 1843, continues to be a point of contention between the city and its owners, the Shodeen Family Foundation.

A recent adjudication hearing brought the property's maintenance issues to the forefront.

Key points:

  • The city has cited the Shodeen Family Foundation for failing to maintain key elements of the exterior of the blacksmith shop.

  • Geneva officials are primarily seeking compliance with property maintenance codes.

  • The Shodeen Family Foundation argued that as a historic structure, the blacksmith shop should not fall under standard property maintenance regulations.

  • Previous attempts by the owners to demolish the building have been denied, leading to legal action.

This situation reflects ongoing challenges in balancing historic preservation with property rights and development interests.

Read more in this Shaw Local article.

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