Constructed in 1907, the historic schoolhouse at 120 Henry Ave. is the subject of a proposed development project. (Ruby Keller photo)
On June 10 at 5 p.m., an open house will take place at 120 Henry Ave. to discuss plans for a potential development project. The special use permit applicant, Craig Suntrup, organized the event in response to growing community interest in the proposal.
Built in 1907 as a schoolhouse, the 6,868-square-foot structure served the Parkway School District for auxiliary services until 1994, when it transitioned to use as a bridal shop. According to the applicant’s plans, the property would be converted into office space with the addition of automobile service bays to serve a neighboring business.
The proposal includes an expanded parking lot and a new service bay addition designed to complement the existing historic schoolhouse architecture. The proposed operating hours are 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, with an estimated workforce of 10 to 15 employees.
Since the property is zoned C-1 Commercial, which classifies auto body and related service facilities as special uses, the request must be processed as a special use permit application.
The Board of Aldermen’s original June 1 public hearing was postponed to allow time for the June 10 open house event.
Manchester City Administrator Justin Klocke stated that Suntrup wanted an opportunity to address resident questions and foster constructive dialogue prior to the board’s consideration. Although the open house is sponsored by the applicant rather than the city, Manchester is helping publicize the event.
The open house will provide an opportunity to review project information, examine renderings, discuss potential impacts, and ask questions of the applicant. Should Suntrup decide to move forward, a formal public hearing will be scheduled at an upcoming board meeting.
Mayor Ben Toben emphasized that the city is performing appropriate due diligence, noting the project has already been evaluated by the Planning & Zoning Committee.
“The public hearing postponement provides residents with additional time to voice concerns and the applicant with time to present project details to the community,” Toben explained. “The Board of Aldermen will carefully review all input from both residents and the applicant before reaching a decision.”
Ruby is a freelance contributor to West Newsmagazine and Mid Rivers Newsmagazine. A native of St. Louis, she holds a degree from the University of Kansas.
