HYS Statement on the Public Listing of the West Pikeland Township Building

In keeping with its mission to share, preserve, and celebrate the unique living village of Yellow Springs while focusing on history, arts, education, and the environment, Historic Yellow Springs remains keenly interested in the future of the West Pikeland Township building, a historically significant structure within the original village and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Historic Yellow Springs recognizes that this building represents more than real estate. It is an important cultural resource within the village, with the potential to continue serving the community through historic preservation, artistic programming, and public engagement. We respectfully encourage the West Pikeland Township Board of Supervisors to consider these enduring values, alongside financial considerations, when evaluating proposals for the property’s sale.

Historic Yellow Springs does not currently possess the financial resources necessary to meet the reported minimum asking price of $2 million along with the operating and maintenance expenses associated with such a large historic building. We continue to seek information, partnerships, and potential resources that might make a mutually beneficial preservation opportunity possible.

We remain committed to exploring collaborative solutions with SALT Performing Arts, West Pikeland Township, and public, private, and governmental partners who share an interest in preserving the historic integrity and cultural vitality of this important site.

At the same time, our responsibility extends to the long-term health and sustainability of the village. We cannot compromise the organization’s financial stability or the future of the broader historic campus in pursuit of meeting a requested price to acquire another building.

We therefore encourage the Township to thoughtfully consider all available options for the property’s future, including opportunities that prioritize historic preservation, continued cultural use, and the long-term benefit of the community. Our hope is that a path forward can be identified that allows the Township to secure its financial obligations while safeguarding this irreplaceable piece of our shared heritage for future generations.