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264 While Council individually may have different ideas about how the property shouM be used our primary goal is the historic preservation of Jefferson, in a way for the community to be proud. At this point we are prepared to make this commitment: first, to actively engage interested members of the community to provide input about the use of the school. To that end we will be appointing an Advisory Committee to assist the City. The Committee will include representatives of the adjoining neighborhoods; the school's Alumni Association, the public school system; City staff and others interested in the preservation of the site. The Committee will develop and evaluate concepts for the restoration, preservation and long-term use of the Jefferson School Building. As the products of the Advisory Committee's work are received by Council, Council will hold open work sessions and public dialogues with the committee, and will keep future meetings to determine the best course of action on Jefferson School open to the public to the maximum extent possible. Second we are committed to a thoughtful and thorough examination of every viable alternative for the school. In the days ahead we will need to determine the answers to a number of questions, including: what cultural~ educational, recreational or other public uses are appropriate for the future use of the building? How can the historic features of the school be retained? Last but certainly not least, what is the most prudent and fiscally responsible way to finance the renovations needed at the school? Finally, to those who believe that money should not be a consideration in the plans for Jefferson School, we must respectfully disagree. The total cost for the complete renovation of the school is estimated to be $8 million +. That amount represents almost the entire City budget for capitaI projects for the next year. While the renovation of Jefferson School is a top priority for City Council, we cannot ignore other pressing capital needs throughout the City and throughout the school system. We must explore alternative sources of financing, including grants, tax incentives and private foundation financing, before making any final decision regarding the total future of the Jefferson School property. We will leave no stone unturned as we seek creative ways to preserve and enhance the building. The Jefferson School is too special to the community not to have community support on a preservation and development plan, but also feel that it should still be considered by the Task Force. Many examples of success exist nationwide. As we previously noted the future renovation and adaptive re-use of Jefferson School represents a great opportunity for this City. City Council is confident that if we, as a community, are creative and work collectively toward consensus, it will not be a missed opportunity." Mr. Lynch said that now that the City is the steward of the building he made a motion to authorize the City Manager to sign a letter of endorsement to place the building on the National Historic Registry. Ms. Richards seconded the motion. Mr. Toscano said he would like to know more about the pros and cons of such a designation. Mr. O'Connell said that the designation is necessary if tax credits are sought or if state or federal grants for historic renovation are sought. Mr. O'Connell said it is staffs understanding that such a designation does not require anything to be done to the building. Mr. O'Connell noted that the designation would apply to the entire site, not just the existing building and the impact on any infflt is unknown. Ms. Richards asked if the buildings materials used on Jefferson School will be under review only if tax credits are applied for. Mr. Caravati said the Board of Architectural Review will review building materials, but Mr. Brown said that the building will need to he designated as historic in the City's ordinance in order for it to fall under BAR review. Mr. Toscano said the issue is will it make it more difficult to do some things on the site.