GALION, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—The Galion Board of Zoning Appeals promptly addressed a work stoppage order affecting the Galion Elks Lodge during a specially convened meeting on Tuesday.
The situation originated in March when the Elks Lodge obtained approval to install steel siding on its building at 212 Harding Highway East. Due to the lodge’s location within the historic district of downtown Galion, obtaining permission from the Design and Review Board was a requirement. The Board adheres to standards established by the Federal Department of the Interior for projects in historic areas.
Initially, the Elks Lodge was granted permission to overlay the concrete front of the building with steel siding. However, complications arose when workers were observed applying the siding to the second and third floors as well. According to Don Brown, Chairman of the Design Review Board, this issue stemmed from a misunderstanding. The use of steel siding violated the original design standards, which prohibit covering brick on the structure. Instead, the brick must be replaced with new brick. Adhering to these standards would have entailed an expensive restoration project, costing hundreds of thousands of dollars.
As a result, the matter escalated to the Board of Zoning Appeals. Speaking to a crowded audience, Brown emphasized that the Design Review Board did not intend to obstruct the Elks’ renovation project but was committed to finding an appropriate solution to the issue.
Zoning Board member Dee Trumpler Volk expressed frustration over the community backlash the Board received on social media, noting that some comments were accusatory and even threatening. One particularly alarming remark stated, “I need to report a murder…”
In a unanimous decision, the Board voted to allow the Elks Lodge to resume its renovation work. The decision was met with applause from those in attendance, signaling strong community support for the project.
Over the past three years, the national organization of the Elks has raised an impressive $33 million for various charitable causes. Locally, the Galion Elks Lodge has contributed significantly to the community, funding initiatives totaling $99,188 during the same period through its various services.