HOLLISTER
The next consideration for local leaders on construction of the new courthouse is what to do with a historic landmark on the site with deep roots – literally – in San Benito County.
With the old Fremont School location cleared for use as the courthouse’s future site, Hollister Redevelopment Agency officials are planning its demolition for February, but council members Tuesday first must consider an environmental impact report for the school building’s leveling and whether to uproot a catalpa tree designated as a historic landmark.
Just in December, Superior Court Judge Steven Sanders reflected on memories of the old, knarled tree while speaking to the Free Lance about the site and noted how his son broke a finger long ago on it while playing tackle football.
The council meeting is set for 6:30 p.m. at Hollister City Hall, 375 Fifth St.
The Hollister RDA would pay about $90,000 for the Fremont School site demolition, scheduled for completion by Feb. 20.
City Manager Clint Quilter also noted how the city already had conducted a hazardous materials abatement.
The state is funding the new courthouse’s construction at more than $30 million. A local committee in 2007 had recommended the downtown site to the state’s Administrative Office of the Courts while noting the Flynn Road property as a mandated alternative. After the state chose the Flynn Road site out of seismic-related concerns, locals spoke out in favor of the downtown site and ultimately won out.
