Bank Building Causes Governmental Squabble

The city wants to see the vacant building preserved, however, and is taking steps to create a historic district, which could block any significant changes to the building. Macomb County commission chairwoman Nancy White says that while the county doesn't have any immediate plans for the building, and would be willing to lease itback to the city for now, it wants to maintain the long-term control of the fate of the structure, which has an appearance some have likened to a mushroom.

White's comments in favor of saving the bank building came after a county board of commissioners committee voted against a plan to offer the bank building property for sale to the city. The distinctive building, considered an architectural "jewel" by historic preservationists, was part of a package deal, with the county buying three contiguous Downtown parcels last month for $2.8 million. The county wants the Main Street land for long-term plans to construct an office building. In the short term, the parcels will be used for parking.

When county officials announced their surprise purchase, they said they planned to demolish the three "dilapidated" buildings on the site--an abandoned fork lift company warehouse, an auto repair shop and the vacant bank building.

The Mount Clemens city commission responded last week by using its historic district ordinance to convert the bank building property into a historic district. Under state law, state approval is still required for the district to take effect. The district would provide tax breaks to any purchaser who bought the bank to renovate and preserve it.

The bank building, known for its swooping, undulating concrete roof, created a sensation from its opening in 1961. Designed by renowned architect William Kessler, the building's innovative style received national attention in architectural circles.