City Council Approves First Reading of Barat, Woodlands Land Merger

City council members Monday unanimously approved the first reading for an ordinance amending the special use permit which merges of the

The action paves the way for the demolition of the early 1900s era Old Main building and reuse of the site for educational purposes.

"This is what we hoped for and expected," said Ralph Elwart, Woodlands Academy Board Trustee. "We are looking forward to the next step."

The full city council also approved an ordinance amending Chapter 9, Architectural and Site Design Review of the city code giving the city council final approval for all building review recommendations.

A second ordinance also was approved amending the city code to allow that the Historic Preservation Commission act only in a recommendation role, with the City Council responsible for final approval.

Second reading on the Woodlands Academy-Barat College project is to be presented at the Feb. 21 City Council meeting.