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From: Laurel Hampton
To: Watson, Scott
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Proposed Demo on Orange St
Date: Tuesday, May 20, 2025 9:37:07 AM
Hi Scott,
I just wanted to voice my strong disapproval of plans to demolish that Structure of Merit! Because I work during the day I won’t be able to attend the hearing in person so I’m writing you instead.
First choice would be for it to be restored and occupied as a residence or business, and only if that’s not feasible, then to have it moved to another location, but to destroy that piece of history and craftsmanship for another asphalt parking lot is wrong on so many levels.
Thanks, Laurel
1 Maldonado, Matthew
From: Sala Ponnech <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, May 22, 2025 11:27 AM
To: Ward1
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Demolition of Old House on Orange Street
CAUTION: This email originated from outside the City of Riverside. It was not sent by any City official or staff. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
In order to built the new school in Riverside's Eastside, the school district had to demolish an old house that stood on what within the new school's campus. I was grieved by this decision, but the house stood in the way of a badly needed school that will be an amenity for the neighborhood and would right a historic wrong. On the other hand, I don't see that the County Office of Schools' desire for more parking rises to that level of necessity. Also, if we allow houses to be taken down in historic districts for anything but the mst pressing needs, then the designation of areas as historic districts is meaningless. For these and other reasons, I oppose the COE's decision to destroy this house.
Sala Ponnech
3878 Pine Street, Riverside, CA 92501
2 Maldonado, Matthew
From: Alana A <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, May 22, 2025 12:15 PM
To: Ward1
Subject: [EXTERNAL] 1908 Victorian house on Orange Street
CAUTION: This email originated from outside the City of Riverside. It was not sent by any City official or staff. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
I'm a long-time resident of Riverside, born and raised here, and I'll be brief. Regarding the demolition of a 1908 Victorian home for a parking structure, I'm astonished that the city would consider such a move. It's outrageous to prioritize parking over preserving historic buildings. My concerns are that we're losing the beauty that makes Riverside unique.
Sincerely
Alana R Atencio
Resident since 1973
3 Maldonado, Matthew
From: Cynthia Aburto <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, May 22, 2025 9:32 AM
To: Ward1
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Preservation of Structure of Merit Historical Home in the Prospect Place Historical District
CAUTION: This email originated from outside the City of Riverside. It was not sent by any City official or staff. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
To Whom it May Concern,
I am writing as a concerned resident and advocate for our city’s cultural and architectural heritage. It has come to my attention that a demolition request for a historic home located at 4472 Orange St has been requested by the Riverside County Office of Education (RCOE), and in its place will be a parking lot. I respectfully request that the City Council consider intervening in this decision and explore alternatives that would preserve the structure while supporting urban growth.
Across the world and within our own city, there are successful models of urban regeneration that harmonize cultural heritage preservation with economic revitalization. A 2021 study by Knippschild and Zöllter described how the city of Görlitz, Germany, used a collaborative planning approach—known as the Urban Transformation Matrix—to preserve heritage buildings while adapting them for modern use.
This framework has led to sustainable development in shrinking cities, proving that history and progress can coexist.
Riverside has already demonstrated this balance with projects such as the Fox Performing Arts Center and The Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture. These adaptive reuse successes show that integrating preservation into development not only protects our identity but also enhances economic opportunity and community engagement.
I urge the powers that may be to consider a temporary pause on the demolition to allow for a thorough review by the Cultural Heritage Board, and to explore options such as adaptive reuse, community leasing, or partnership with local preservation organizations. I understand there are interested parties willing to take on this project.
As a community, we can ensure this home becomes a lasting asset, not a lost opportunity by honoring the past and future of Riverside. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Cynthia Aburto
4701 Whipple Rd, Riverside, CA 92506
4 Maldonado, Matthew
From: Falcone, Philip
Sent: Thursday, May 22, 2025 8:27 AM
To: Ward1
Subject: FW: [EXTERNAL] Tear down of home on Orange St
From: Ronald Velasquez <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, May 21, 2025 4:14 PM
To: Falcone, Philip <[email protected]>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Tear down of home on Orange St
I am writing to opp ose the tear down of historic ho me on Orange St by the Riverside Cou nty Office of Education. I h ope they will repurpose the h ome or sell/donate the home to someone for preservation. Sent from my iPh one ZjQcmQRY FpfptBannerStart
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I am writing to oppose the tear down of historic home on Orange St by the Riverside County Office of Education. I hope they will repurpose the home or sell/donate the home to someone for preservation.
Sent from my iPhone
Stay in-the-know with all things Riverside! Connect with us at RiversideCA.gov/Connect.
5 Maldonado, Matthew
From: Dawn Plumb <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, May 22, 2025 6:47 AM
To: Ward1
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Save the 4472 Orange Street House
CAUTION: This email originated from outside the City of Riverside. It was not sent by any City official or staff. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
To Whom it May Concern,
Please save this historic home at 4472 Orange Street from being demolished. Riverside needs to continue to save our cities beautiful historic structures. We need to value and promote our past through restoration and education.
It is imperative that Riverside saves our charming historic past.
Sincerely,
Dawn Plumb
Sent from my iPad
6 Maldonado, Matthew
From: Natalie Gomez <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, May 21, 2025 9:42 PM
To: Ward1
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Have a Heart and Save the Gearhardt House!
CAUTION: This email originated from outside the City of Riverside. It was not sent by any City official or staff. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Councilmember Falcone,
I have been a resident of Riverside for more than 40 years. I have seen many changes during those years. Some good, and some not so good.
Razing a building of historical significance for short-term convenience undermines the cultural integrity of Riverside and erases a piece of our shared heritage. This is not a good change and I strongly oppose the demolition of the Gearhardt building.
We would be deeply remiss to demolish an irreplaceable Structure of Merit # 313, for a few parking spaces. This reflects short-term thinking and a disregard for legacy, and possibly a failure of civic responsibility.
It’s the kind of decision that future generations often regret, wondering why preservation wasn’t prioritized over convenience.
Historical preservation in Riverside must be honored, as a civic duty to protect the character, stories, and identity that define our community.
Thank you,
Kind Regards,
Natalie Gomez
951-543-7696
4010 Redwood Drive
7 Maldonado, Matthew
From: Tamera Phipps <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, May 21, 2025 7:19 PM
To: Ward1
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Old home
CAUTION: This email originated from outside the City of Riverside. It was not sent by any City official or staff. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Why??? I’m reading on the neighborhood app that a house is being torn down for a parking lot.
Please!! Don’t do this. We need to save the historical areas, homes, buildings , etc of the city of Riverside.
Sent from my iPhone
8 Maldonado, Matthew
From: Charlene McKinley-Powell <[email protected]> Sent: Wednesday, May 21, 2025 3:36 PM
To: Ward1
Subject: Re: [EXTERNAL] Concerns about the 1908 Victorian Cottage
CAUTION: This email originated from outside the City of Riverside. It was not sent by any City official or staff. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Good afternoon Philip,
Thank you for your swift response.
Have a good day,
Charlene
On Tue, May 20, 2025 at 1:36 PM Ward1 <[email protected]> wrote:
Hi Charlene,
The home is currently owned by Riverside County Office of Education. It had a fire because RCOE left it boarded up and neglected. If it were to be restored and used again, that would deter undesirable activity. I hope they will just sell it off to someone who has the interest in maintaining it. There are a few folks who have expressed interest in buying it but no word from RCOE. Moving it could be a second, although not my preferred, option. We really do not utilize eminent domain anymore unless in direct relation to city construction projects.
Thank you!
9 From: Charlene McKinley-Powell <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, May 20, 2025 10:32 AM
To: Ward1 <[email protected]>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Concerns about the 1908 Victorian Cottage
Good mor ning Philip, I absolutely love old buildings - my house is a 1918 Craftsma n - but I am concer ned about problems that often occur when a building is empty. The area where the building is loc ated has a rather signi fica nt homel ess population, ZjQcmQR YFpfptBa nnerStart
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Good morning Philip,
I absolutely love old buildings - my house is a 1918 Craftsman - but I am concerned about problems that often occur when a building is empty.
The area where the building is located has a rather significant homeless population, many of whom appear to be under the influence of drugs. I don't want the building to be saved only to be vandalized, stripped of anything that could possibly be sold, set on fire, or occupied by squatters. The cost of any of those problems is significant, especially a fire.
I assume that the house is currently owned by a company, which may be an insurmountable obstacle to attracting a resident or business that will restore it. However, if the demolition request is denied they may be motivated to sell the property.
Is there any chance the city can obtain it by eminent domain?
Thank you,
Charlene McKinley-Powell
11 Maldonado, Matthew
From: Sally Clark <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, May 21, 2025 2:30 PM
To: Ward1
Subject: [EXTERNAL] 4472 Orange St
CAUTION: This email originated from outside the City of Riverside. It was not sent by any City official or staff. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Please stop the demolition of this historic home at 4472 Orange St in Riverside. It is in a historical neighborhood. It should be saved and refurbished. This historic neighborhood of Prospect Place does not need a parking lot. This home has been designated as a historical Structure of Merit. It is a beautiful home and needs to be saved.
12 Maldonado, Matthew
From: John Fay <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, May 21, 2025 3:04 PM
To: Ward1
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Fw: I’m writing to report a concerning incident that occurred on...
CAUTION: This email originated from outside the City of Riverside. It was not sent by any City official or staff. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Please preserve the historic house at 4472 Orange.
John Fay
4260 Bandini
Sent from the all new AOL app for iOS
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14 Maldonado, Matthew
From: Kevan D Cloud <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, May 21, 2025 2:33 PM
To: Ward1
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Save the Gerhardt house
CAUTION: This email originated from outside the City of Riverside. It was not sent by any City official or staff. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Councilman,I
I messaged you rd this subject and you responded; but more formally I would implore the City Council to save this house. We have precious few historical homes because they have been demolished. They preserve our history and are great examples of SoCal architecture. I love driving through old Redlands or downtown Orange where their preservation efforts have been more successful than ours.
Thank you,
Gayle Cloud
Sent from AT&T Yahoo Mail for iPhone
15 Maldonado, Matthew
From: Susan Quanstorm <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, May 21, 2025 2:26 PM
To: Ward1
Subject: [EXTERNAL]
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Historic buildings in Riverside need to be left alone I understand everybody wants to make money but we have enough parking lots
16 Maldonado, Matthew
From: Claudia Gonzalez <[email protected]> Sent: Wednesday, May 21, 2025 2:24 PM
To: Ward1
Subject: [EXTERNAL] 4472 Orange St
CAUTION: This email originated from outside the City of Riverside. It was not sent by any City official or staff. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Council members, Mayor, and City Representatives:
I am writing as a concerned resident of Riverside to express my strong opposition to the proposal to demolish a historical structure (4472 Orange St) in order to build an asphalt parking lot in its place.
Riverside is a city rich with history, and our early 20th-century buildings are more than just architectural landmarks—they are tangible links to our community’s past. These structures contribute not only to the unique character and charm of our city but also to its cultural and historical narrative.
Replacing such a building with a parking lot would be a short-sighted decision that prioritizes temporary convenience over long-term value. Once our history is paved over, it cannot be reclaimed. I urge you to consider alternative solutions that respect and preserve our city's heritage while addressing current development needs. Surely, we can find another use for this building—one that protects the historical heritage and quaint charm that make Ward 1 feel like home.
Thank you for your time and service to our community.
Sincerely,
Claudia and Jose Gonzalez
Ward 1 Residents
[email protected]
17 Maldonado, Matthew
From: Rachel Schneider <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, May 21, 2025 2:06 PM
To: Ward1
Subject: [EXTERNAL] House on orange st owned by RCOE
CAUTION: This email originated from outside the City of Riverside. It was not sent by any City official or staff. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
This was most likely a gorgeous home back in it's hay day.i know time hasn't been kind but someone somewhere can redo it and give it some life again. If RCOE wants to they can turn it into a day care that would help out so many families.pleasw consider all options not just knock down and build a parking lot.
Sincerely
Rachel Schneider Ward one resident
18 Maldonado, Matthew
From: joshua <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, May 21, 2025 2:04 PM
To: Ward1
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Jacob Gerhardt House
CAUTION: This email originated from outside the City of Riverside. It was not sent by any City official or staff. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
To our Ward 1 representatives,
There was a time when the Mission Inn teetered on the edge of destruction—almost replaced by a parking lot. Today, it stands proudly as Riverside’s centerpiece, a testament to what can be saved when we choose preservation over expediency.
We have a chance now to save another important piece of Riverside.
Located at 4472 Orange Street, the Henry Jacob Gerhardt House is among the final surviving residences from the original Prospect Place Historic District. Recognized as a Structure of Merit, the home is a tangible reminder of Riverside’s early neighborhoods and the skilled craftsmanship of the early 20th century. Despite its current state, the house is repairable—and saving it is more than possible; it’s necessary.
Turning yet another lot into pavement contributes to a hotter, harsher environment. More concrete means higher temperatures and less character, less Riverside charm and history. Demolition here would erase a valuable piece of our past while offering little in return.
Keeping the Gerhardt House intact honors Riverside’s story. To destroy it would be to chip away at our identity and silence those who care deeply about the city’s legacy.
Thank you for reading.
Sincerely,
Joshua Hardina
4057 Beechwood Place
19 Maldonado, Matthew
From: Uriel Moralez <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, May 21, 2025 1:56 PM
To: Ward1
Subject: [EXTERNAL] 4472 Orange St
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Good afternoon. I oppose this house being demolished for an asphalt parking lot. 20 Maldonado, Matthew
From: Charlotte Davidson <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, May 21, 2025 1:45 PM
To: Ward1
Subject: [EXTERNAL] No demo!
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Tell the County Office of Education NO DEMO!!! They have already bulldozed many historic homes for parking lots. Just stop!!!
Charlotte Davidson
Property owner downtown
Sent from my iPhone
21 Maldonado, Matthew
From: The Dawsons <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, May 21, 2025 1:15 PM
To: Ward1
Subject: [EXTERNAL] please save the cottage!
CAUTION: This email originated from outside the City of Riverside. It was not sent by any City official or staff. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
I am vehemently opposed to the demolition of the Victorian cottage located at 4472 Orange Street.
As a 30+ year homeowner of a 1921 bungalow in the Wood Streets, I am particularly proud of Riverside's heritage and dedicated to maintaining these older homes that represent the foundation of our culture and community.
Surely the County can find another solution for their needs rather than tearing this property down.
They should share in our community pride, not tear down our history to be replaced by a parking lot.
Sincerely,
Ronald and Michelle Dawson
Elmwood Court
22 Maldonado, Matthew
From: Falcone, Philip
Sent: Wednesday, May 21, 2025 12:48 PM
To: Kathy Schulz
Cc: Maldonado, Matthew
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] Tearing down historic house
Thank you, Kathy. We will file this with our other letters of support to deny the request for demolition.
From: Kathy Schulz <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, May 21, 2025 12:02 PM
To: Falcone, Philip <[email protected]>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Tearing down historic house
Philip, I want to tell you how great you are doing as our counci lma n for our ward. I love what you are doing a nd your outreach is amazi ng. I want to weigh in on the Historic hous e that was picked to be torn down for a parking l ot. I do not ZjQcmQR YFpfptBa nnerStart
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Philip,
I want to tell you how great you are doing as our councilman for our ward. I love what you are doing and your outreach is amazing.
I want to weigh in on the Historic house that was picked to be torn down for a parking lot. I do not approve of this action and back you up on opposing it. There are a number of uses for this property that the city could use it for. It is houses like this that make our city the icon it is.
Kathy Schulz
951-237-8347
Stay in-the-know with all things Riverside! Connect with us at RiversideCA.gov/Connect.
23 Maldonado, Matthew
From: Katie Knight <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, May 21, 2025 12:07 PM
To: Ward1
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Demolition
CAUTION: This email originated from outside the City of Riverside. It was not sent by any City official or staff. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Good afternoon,
Recently RCOE has requested to tear down a historic home to build a parking lot. I am strongly opposed to this. RCOE had already torn down homes to build parking lots. If parking is an issue they should pay to build a parking structure on one of their existing lots. In this current market, no home should ever be destroyed to make room for a parking lot. The last thing we need is more ugly, often empty parking lots.
There is plenty of parking already available. What we do need is more homes. And we need to preserve our historic homes as they are a big part of the character of this city.
Thank you,
Katie Knight
24 Maldonado, Matthew
From: Valerie Payne <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, May 21, 2025 10:58 AM
To: Ward1
Subject: [EXTERNAL] The Henry Jacob Gerhardt House is a Victorian Cottage built by George P.
Harsh at 4472 Orange Street in 1908.
CAUTION: This email originated from outside the City of Riverside. It was not sent by any City official or staff. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Hello,
I'm so sad to hear of the notice of demolition for this historic home. Much of the reason I live here in Riverside is because of the beautiful old historic homes and buildings. I live in the historic district on Redwood Dr. in a house built in 1926.
Can the home be relocated and restored? Please consider all options before our lovely Riverside loses more of its charm and down home feel.
--Sincerely,
Val
25 Maldonado, Matthew
From: birmer123 (null) <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, May 21, 2025 10:23 AM
To: Ward1
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Save our historic sites
CAUTION: This email originated from outside the City of Riverside. It was not sent by any City official or staff. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Stop the demolition of cottage at 4472 Orange st
In Riverside. We need to preserve our historic buildings!!!
Thank you.
Mrs. J Nebo
Sent from my iPhone
26 Maldonado, Matthew
From: Kelly Grady <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, May 21, 2025 10:23 AM
To: Ward1
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Proposed Demolition of Orange Street Cottage
CAUTION: This email originated from outside the City of Riverside. It was not sent by any City official or staff. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Riverside City Council,
I am writing to voice my opposition to the proposed demolition of a beautiful and valuable Victorian cottage at 4472 Orange Street. Though damaged by fire, I feel strongly that preservation of this cottage is far more valuable than another parking lot.
I have been very proud of the fact that Riverside values its history and has a staunch preservation community. That is one of the primary reasons we purchased a historic home here five years ago.
Please don’t disappoint me by tearing down this home. Surely, funds could be raised and an appeal put out to save this cottage, which was designated a Structure of Merit.
We need homes and community. We do not need another parking lot.
Sincerely,
Kelly Grady
27 Maldonado, Matthew
From: Karen Pinkham <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, May 21, 2025 9:48 AM
To: Ward1
Subject: [EXTERNAL] 4472 Orange Street Historic Home
CAUTION: This email originated from outside the City of Riverside. It was not sent by any City official or staff. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Ward 1,
If you truly represent the residents of our community, you would NOT consider demolishing this Historic home. We are losing the charm of Riverside when a building is demolished for parking lots or more concrete buildings.
We are the City of Trees not the city of parking lots.
Respectfully,
Karen Pinkham
Cell (951) 850-5814
WESTCOE REALTORS, INC
7191 Magnolia Avenue
Riverside, CA 92504
DRE Lic # 01422180
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28 Maldonado, Matthew
From: Chantel Hardina <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, May 21, 2025 9:34 AM
To: Ward1
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Preserve the Gerhardt House and Protect Riverside’s Heritage
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To whom it may concern,
Not long ago, the Mission Inn was nearly lost to demolition and replacement by a parking lot. Today it stands as the crown jewel of Riverside and a treasured symbol of our city’s heritage. The same cannot be said for the old Carnegie Library, whose demolition is still mourned by many longtime residents. Let us not make the same mistake again.
The Henry Jacob Gerhardt House at 4472 Orange Street is one of the last remaining original homes in the Prospect Place Historic District and a designated Structure of Merit. It carries undeniable architectural and historical value, reflecting Riverside’s early residential character and the craftsmanship of 1908.
Though damaged, it is not beyond saving. Restoration is not only possible but vital.
More hardscaping in the form of parking lots only worsens the rising temperatures we face as a city and region. Paving over this property adds to the heat, erases history, and gives nothing meaningful back to the community.
Preserving this home would protect a living part of Riverside’s story. Demolishing it would do irreversible harm to our identity and ignore the passionate voices of residents who value heritage over short term convenience.
Please choose preservation over demolition. Help us save this irreplaceable structure and invest in a future that respects the past.
Sincerely,
Chantel Hardina
4057 Beechwood Pl.
29 Maldonado, Matthew
From: Griffith, Marnel <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, May 21, 2025 8:54 AM
To: Ward1
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Regarding 4472 Orange Street
CAUTION: This email originated from outside the City of Riverside. It was not sent by any City official or staff. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Friends in Ward 1,
I am writing to express my deep concern about the proposed demolition of 4472 Orange Street, a significant piece of Riverside’s history.
Far too often, vernacular architecture, the structures designed by local builders using regionally available materials and techniques, faces unwarranted destruction. Yet, some of the richest heritage emerges from these spaces. While high-style buildings tell stories of wealth and prestige, vernacular structures reveal the daily rhythms of ordinary life, the materials and techniques available at the time, and the cultural traditions that influenced their design.
Riverside has long been a city that values its historic fabric, recognizing that these buildings contribute to our cultural, economic, and educational landscape, and provide visual evidence of our historic context.
These spaces hold immense historical and educational value, showing how communities adapted to their environment, lived their lives, while chronicling stories about community identity, climate adaptation, and cultural evolution. Losing this 1908 cottage would mean losing a vital piece of Riverside’s architectural legacy. As stewards of this heritage, we have a responsibility to protect and restore sites that tell all narratives, not just the stories of the most prestigious residents.
If you recall, in 1957, the city witnessed a remarkable restoration following a fire at the Riverside Woman’s Club under the expertise of Clinton Marr. Additionally, Riverside has seen the devastating loss of the Fairmount Park Band Shell due to fire, with a beautiful reconstruction in its honor. These examples prove that restoration is not only possible but can breathe new life into historically significant landmarks.
According to the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties, restoration is a viable option that allows us to maintain the integrity of historically significant places while adapting them for contemporary use. Given the importance of our 1908 Victorian/ Craftsman cottage to our city’s history, we ask for the opportunity to explore alternatives to demolition—ones that would allow this cherished landmark, an example of relevant vernacular architecture, to be revitalized rat her than erased.
It would even be better to relocate the building as an interpretive learning center than remove it from existence.
30 We urge you to consider the long-term benefits of preservation, from fostering local pride to boosting economic sustainability through heritage tourism. By saving our 1908 Cottage, we are investing in Riverside’s future while paying homage to a greater scope of its past.
Please reconsider the decision to demolish and allow us the chance to work toward a preservation solution that aligns with our city’s values and national standards. We stand ready to support efforts to restore this historic site and ensure it continues to serve as an emblem of Riverside’s remarkable legacy.
Thank you for your time and consideration. You have many people that prioritize preservation here in Riverside. I would like to be included in the dialogue about the future of this important building. I urge others to do the same.
Sincerely,
Marni Griffith
Goucher MA Historic Preservation, Class of 2027
951-453-2820
31 Maldonado, Matthew
From: Larkin Sommer <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, May 21, 2025 6:58 AM
To: Ward1
Subject: [EXTERNAL] It would be a real shame to demolish such a structure for a parking lot.
Downtown is special due to its historic charm and lovely old houses. A parking lot does not benefit the surrounding community, especially when housing is needed in the ...
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32 Maldonado, Matthew
From: Claudia Rodriguez <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, May 20, 2025 11:06 PM
To: Ward1
Subject: [EXTERNAL] 1908 Victorian Cottage - 4472 Orange St
CAUTION: This email originated from outside the City of Riverside. It was not sent by any City official or staff. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
I have read about the demolition request for this building by the County Office of Education. As I understand it, they are looking to demolish the building and replace it with a parking lot.
As a Structure of Merit in an Historic District, I vigorously oppose the demolition of this structure. There is a reason that the City Council and Cultural Heritage Board make these designations...to acknowledge structures that preserve our history.
Please help us save this structure!
Claudia Rodriguez
Ward 2 Resident and Riverside History Enthusiast
33 Maldonado, Matthew
From: Rebecca Kallinger <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, May 20, 2025 6:36 PM
To: Ward1
Subject: [EXTERNAL] House on Orange St
CAUTION: This email originated from outside the City of Riverside. It was not sent by any City official or staff. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Philip,
It is important that we preserve the historic
Character of our neighborhoods in Riverside. I believe the house on Orange should not be demolished. How many people would trade looking at a charming historic house in their neighborhood to looking at an asphalt car lot.
Rebecca Kallinger
Sent from my iPhone
34 Maldonado, Matthew
From: Sandra Adams <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, May 20, 2025 4:54 PM
To: Ward1
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Orange street home
CAUTION: This email originated from outside the City of Riverside. It was not sent by any City official or staff. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Please keep the Orange street home and designate it as a historical place.
Sandra Adams
Director, American English Institute
(951) 824-6150 | Cell: (951) 321-0707
https://urldefense.com/v3/__http://www.american-english- institute.com__;!!LnQxKMu5lWc!PpeIiQ6rl_ryxyBJMkLx-
cNLiLtJPekCSEoaGkEvSV1ufsf0UBoOjWR3_1B373jd7P3J7zFCeEc2tHfE7ux6NeFp2Q$ [email protected]
2002 Iowa Ave #110, Riverside, CA 92507
35 Maldonado, Matthew
From: Ward1
Sent: Tuesday, May 20, 2025 4:24 PM
To: Maldonado, Matthew
Subject: FW: Save the Cottage!
From: Sara Witt <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, May 20, 2025 11:23:44 PM (UTC+00:00) Monrovia, Reykjavik To: Ward1 <[email protected]>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Save the Cottage!
CAUTION: This email originated from outside the City of Riverside. It was not sent by any City official or staff. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Historic buildings show various architectural styles, artistry and craftsmanship. But they also provide communities with a link to its heritage and those who came before us. I believe we have a responsibility to care for those historic buildings whenever possible. It’s nice way to show gratitude for those who came before us and cared for this community that we now all call home, and hopefully we pass that spirit on to future generations. :)
Stay in-the-know with all things Riverside! Connect with us at RiversideCA.gov/Connect.
36 Maldonado, Matthew
From: Adam Brown <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, May 20, 2025 4:22 PM
To: Ward1
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Demolition Request for 4472 Orange St (Structure of Merit in Prospect Place Historic District)
CAUTION: This email originated from outside the City of Riverside. It was not sent by any City official or staff. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Adam C. Brown
470 Glenhill Dr
Riverside, CA 92507
[email protected]
951.455.2440
05/20/2025
City of Riverside Planning Department
3900 Main Street
Riverside, CA 92522
RE: Opposition to Demolition Request for 4472 Orange St (Structure of Merit in Prospect Place Historic District)
Dear Members of the Planning Department and City Officials, I am writing to formally express my strong opposition to the proposed demolition of the historic Victorian cottage located at 4472 Orange Street in Riverside. As a resident and advocate for the preservation of our city’s unique architectural heritage, I ur
ge you to deny the request submitted by the Riverside County Office of Education to destroy this historically significant building for the construction of a parking lot.
This 1908 cottage is not only a beautiful representation of Victorian architecture but also a designated Structure of Merit and a contributing asset to the Prospect Place Historic District. It represents more than a physical structure, it is a living embodiment of our community’s identity, craftsmanship, and rich historical narrative.
Although the building has sustained fire damage, reports indicate that it remains structurally sound.
Restoration and adaptive reuse, not demolition, should be the path forward. To permit its destruction would not only undermine decades of thoughtful preservation but also set a dangerous precedent for the further erosion of our historic districts.
37 Once these irreplaceable landmarks are gone, they are gone forever. In their place, we are left with soulless asphalt lots that do nothing to enhance our community, engage our residents, or reflect the character that makes Riverside such a special place to live.
I respectfully urge the City of Riverside to preserve 4472 Orange Street and uphold the values of historical stewardship and cultural preservation. Let us not trade architectural legacy for impermanence. We owe it to past and future generations to protect the fabric of our city.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Adam C. Brown
38 Maldonado, Matthew
From: Chris r + o <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, May 20, 2025 3:00 PM
To: Ward1
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Re: our citiy’s heritage and character in jeopardy - SAVE 4472 Orange St
CAUTION: This email originated from outside the City of Riverside. It was not sent by any City official or staff. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Hello,
I recently learned about the possible destruction of a beautiful historic residence - 4472 Orange St.
I moved with my family and business to Riverside only a few years ago . I was drawn by the incredible spirt of the downtown and its surrounding wards’ unique architecture and I am thrilled to live in a 1913 home here in riverside.
I am shocked that the city is considering permitting the destruction of this recognized Structure of Merit.
I sincerely hope that the city will reconsider allowing this demolition. Many local’s have told me they remember when the Mission Inn was once threatened with demolition, but luckily those in charge realized the vital importance our heritage architecture is to the fabric and soul of our city. - and the income the citys business enjoy from visitors and tourists drawn to these historical areas.
Please remember-one of the reasons so many of us live here is because of these irreplaceable structures that offer so much joy to all of us citizens- don’t remove what we cannot replace.
Thank you for your time.
Chris Obeji
https://urldefense.com/v3/__http://www.romero-obeji-
interiordesign.com__;!!LnQxKMu5lWc!Ju92IhgdSGaVoybCM9UQhItBKNak3bIWXj8b6HcEUtn4t_xqfL je2rY8V9oScilNi3lS8MkmDsrzZwHTMTkVlScSycEoC-Jatw$
Woodstreets resident
39 Maldonado, Matthew
From: Josiah Kenan <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, May 20, 2025 1:21 PM
To: Ward1
Subject: [EXTERNAL] 4472 Orange St
CAUTION: This email originated from outside the City of Riverside. It was not sent by any City official or staff. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Please save the historic building at 4472 Orange St!
40 Maldonado, Matthew
From: J W <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, May 20, 2025 1:20 PM
To: Ward1
Cc: J W
Subject: [EXTERNAL] 4472 Orange St, Riverside, CA
CAUTION: This email originated from outside the City of Riverside. It was not sent by any City official or staff. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear County of Education,
Please do not destroy the historic home located at 4472 Orange Street. Too many of our historic homes often fall victim to demolition. It should be preserved.
I would think a better option is the car wash across the street, or build a historically accurate 4 story parking structure on the existing lot behind the old B of A building.
Best regards,
John Warlikowski
3538 Linwood Place
Riverside, CA 92506
41 Maldonado, Matthew
From: Jessica McIntyre <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, May 20, 2025 12:09 PM
To: Ward1
Subject: [EXTERNAL] 4472 Orange street
CAUTION: This email originated from outside the City of Riverside. It was not sent by any City official or staff. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
I am voicing my opposition to the demo of this historic home to put in parking for RUSD. It is a structure of merit and important to our city history. Also, our city is charming due to the old homes and they bring culture. A parking lot does not. Please do not allow this.
Jess McIntyre
6317 Brockton Ave
9097305643
42 Maldonado, Matthew
From: Charlene McKinley-Powell <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, May 20, 2025 10:32 AM
To: Ward1
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Concerns about the 1908 Victorian Cottage
CAUTION: This email originated from outside the City of Riverside. It was not sent by any City official or staff. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Good morning Philip,
I absolutely love old buildings - my house is a 1918 Craftsman - but I am concerned about problems that often occur when a building is empty.
The area where the building is located has a rather significant homeless population, many of whom appear to be under the influence of drugs. I don't want the building to be saved only to be vandalized, stripped of anything that could possibly be sold, set on fire, or occupied by squatters. The cost of any of those problems is significant, especially a fire.
I assume that the house is currently owned by a company, which may be an insurmountable obstacle to attracting a resident or business that will restore it. However, if the demolition request is denied they may be motivated to sell the property.
Is there any chance the city can obtain it by eminent domain?
Thank you,
Charlene McKinley-Powell
Ward 1 Resident
43 Maldonado, Matthew
From: armando benitez <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, May 20, 2025 9:17 AM
To: Ward1
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Do NOT demolish the house at 4472 Orange St.
CAUTION: This email originated from outside the City of Riverside. It was not sent by any City official or staff. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Preserve our history!!