The city of Dallas has admitted to neglecting its iconic City Hall building, which may put it in legal hot water. A group of attorneys claims that the city is allowing the building to fall into disrepair to justify its demolition, which is against the city’s own demolition by neglect ordinance.

Background

The distinctive inverted pyramid structure was designed by world-renowned architect I.M. Pei. The Landmark Commission voted unanimously in March of last year to initiate the historic designation procedure for city hall, which means the 48-year-old building is protected.

Scott Griggs, a former city council member and attorney with Save Dallas City Hall, said the city’s own argument for abandoning city hall is because it is in a state of disrepair. However, this violates the city’s own demolition by neglect ordinance. Griggs stated that the city needs to take care of its own place and get its house in order.

The city’s public reports revealed problems including interior water infiltration, a failed interior gutter system, and leaks over electrical infrastructure. The coalition believes these reports are evidence that an investigation by the city’s historic preservation officer is needed immediately.

Next Steps

The coalition requested that the city confirm it has launched an investigation within 14 days. The city has not commented on the matter.

Original reporting: Dallas – Ft. Worth Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.