Vision for downtown requires council approval
By KATHRYN MARTINEZ news1@kilgorenewsherald.com

When Kilgore was admitted into the Texas Main Street program the city council was charged with making decisions in the best interest of downtown.

Harry Crouse, downtown building owner, has met two sets of committee standards for a $10,000 façade improvement grant at the old Longhorn Drug building. Crouse's design pleased the design committee and earned the maximum grant amount. The downtown advisory board also approved the grant.

Now city council is slated to vote before Crouse may begin with façade improvements because his plans include the erection of a balcony that requires supports which obstructs the public right of way.

A Kilgore city ordinance reads "It shall be unlawful for any person to partially or entirely obstruct any part of any street, alley, sidewalk or public grounds in the city with lumber, boxes, timber or anything whatsoever in any manner, without a special permit therefor from the city manager or his designee."

Jeff Howell, city manager, said he feels approval of a permit for Crouse's project requires a council decision.

(above) A drawing by Harry Crouse, downtown business owner, of his vision for the future façade of the old Longhorn Drug building depicts a balcony stretching across the entire front and unifying the dual appearance of the historic building. (top) A file photo of the current exterior of the old Longhorn Drug building on Kilgore Street.

In a letter to members of city council Crouse wrote, "My intention is to rehabilitate the façade of the building in the manner to reflect the era which it was built."

Crouse has presented council with a drawing of his balcony plans says that the balcony will unify the building façade's dual appearance, which he considers the largest hurdle in this façade improvement project.

Crouse also aims to encourage downtown living by finishing out apartments on the second floor - apartments which would have access to the balcony above the sidewalk on Kilgore Street..

Kilgore City Council meets 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 25 at Kilgore City Hall in Council Chambers.