Community Tensions Rise Over Euclid Methodist Church in St. Pete

The historic Euclid Methodist Church standing amid community discussions on its future.

News Summary

In St. Pete’s Euclid-St. Paul neighborhood, plans to convert the historic Euclid Methodist Church into an event venue face backlash after a City Council deadlock. The church, a registered historic site, has ignited community concerns over traffic and noise. The new owners had proposed revitalization efforts, but nearly 100 residents signed a petition against the conversion, highlighting the struggle between preservation and urban development.

Community Tensions Rise as Historic Church’s Future Hangs in the Balance in St. Pete

In the vibrant neighborhood of St. Pete’s Euclid-St. Paul, a beautiful century-old church is at the center of a heated debate following a recent decision by the local City Council. The Euclid Methodist Church, which has stood proud at 919 10th Avenue North since its inception, was hoping to transform into an event venue. However, after a split vote of 4-4, the City Council has put a damper on those plans, leaving many residents feeling uncertain about what lies ahead for this historic landmark.

The Church’s Historic Significance

The Euclid Methodist Church holds a special place in the community’s heart. It was officially added to the St. Petersburg Register of Historic Places back in 2004, recognizing its architectural and cultural importance. Despite its stunning legacy, attempts to renovate the property have stumbled due to objections from local residents concerned about potential traffic congestion and higher noise levels.

Plans to Revitalize the Property

The new owners, Noam and Irene Krasniansky, were hoping to breathe new life into the church with a plan that included transforming it into a venue capable of hosting up to 180 guests and adding a charming seven-unit bed and breakfast enterprise known as The Treehouse. The couple made a significant investment in the church’s future, purchasing the property for $1.1 million after their relocation from Los Angeles, where they profited by selling their previous home.

Previously, the couple faced a setback in November when their adaptive reuse plans were turned down by the Community Planning and Preservation Commission (CPPC), which hinted at the challenges ahead. Their efforts weren’t the first to encounter such opposition; the former property owners, Paradise Ventures, had also looked into converting the church into office space but faced similar pushback from the community.

Community Sentiments and Concerns

100 residents signing a petition against the proposed plans, it’s clear that this issue touches many hearts. Their concerns predominantly revolved around anticipated parking difficulties and worries over noise levels that could disrupt the peaceful neighborhood vibe.

To counter these issues, the Krasnianskys had made arrangements to secure extra parking spaces from local businesses—about 100 off-site spots—and their guests were set to be whisked away by a private transit service dubbed the Star Trolley. Nevertheless, flexibility in these parking agreements made some council members, including Councilmember Lisset Hanewicz, cautious regarding endorsement of the project.

Voices from the Community

The Road Ahead

Krasnianskys ponder their next steps, the church teeters on the brink of potential condemnation due to ongoing maintenance challenges. The rejection of their appeal dashes their immediate plans, but the future remains open. Only time will tell what this historic church’s path looks like, and the community will be watching closely.

The tale of the Euclid Methodist Church is just one example of the complexities that arise when preserving history meets budding urban development. With a blend of passions—preservation, revitalization, and community concerns—this story is far from over, and it is sure to spark further conversations as residents rally for the best possible outcome for their cherished landmark.