The Pompano Beach Unsafe Structures Board voted today to allow a 150 day stay on its demolition order for the historic Bank of Pompano building.

The building's current owner, the Pompano Beach Community Redevelopment Agency [CRA], had requested the Unsafe Structures Board reconsider its May, 2004, decision that the 80+ year old structure must be demolished.

Representing the CRA at the board meeting, City Manager Bill Hargett pointed out that the possibility of restoration funding from the county, as well as interest in the building from private developers were new factors that should be considered. Mayor John Rayson also spoke in favor of delaying (at least) demolition.

Preservation architect Thorn Grafton, who had submitted a report supporting restoration of the structure, also spoke in favor of restoration, as did Preservation Advisory Board chairperson Marion Phelps and board member Robert Todd.

After discussion, the Unsafe Structures Board voted 5 - 1 to stay its demolition order for 150 days.

This will allow the CRA and other interested parties to move forward with restoration and financing plans.