By Ben Disney
An open town hall meeting was held this past Sunday (Oct. 21) to share information regarding the Arborlawn Bell Tower and to discuss the plan of action recommended by the Trustees. We recognize the Bell Tower has served as a visible part of the church landscape for many years and is an important part of our identity and visibility in the community. The primary issue is the exterior brick, which has experienced decades of stress and cracking compounded by a material used in the original construction which has weakened the mortar in some places. After a lengthy and exhaustive investigation of options, the Trustees of Arborlawn are recommending the demolition of the tower in light of safety concerns. The tower is not in danger of collapsing. The concern is with the exterior façade and the possibility of a brick becoming dislodged and causing injury or damage. Unfortunately, the problem caused by the material used in the original construction makes the repair of the tower virtually impossible.
In summary:
* The Trustees are recommending the demolition of the Bell Tower in light of safety concerns.
* Five different proposals for the demolition project were reviewed by the Trustees. The recommended proposed cost for the project was $21,050.63.
* There is no designated funding available for the project since this was an unexpected and non-budgeted expense. We will raise the money necessary through donations and additional funds. If you would like to contribute to the effort, there is a Bell Tower demolition fund now set up through the church office. Work will begin when we have the funds in place.
* There are no immediate plans to rebuild the tower, but we have secured bids for those who want more information about the possibility of replacing it with a new tower.
* The carillon bells, a generous gift from Bill and Pat Claypool, will be recovered and reinstalled at another location at the church so that we may continue to enjoy the music.
* The cross on top of the Bell Tower will also be retained by the church.
Though we’re grieved by the demolition of such a visible part of our church campus, we must do everything we can to ensure the safety of our people. We continue to do everything we can to be open, transparent, and honest about the issues that arise and to address them responsibly. We express our deep appreciation to the Trustees for their leadership and hard work on our behalf. If you have any questions please contact Larry Dillon (chair of our Trustees) or Ben Disney.
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