After several weeks of heated debates and delayed meetings, the Syracuse Common Council finally came to a decision - the house at 1100 East Genesee Street did not qualify as a historical landmark.
Seems like an insignificant decision, in the grand scheme of things right?
Wrong.
The Ronald McDonald House Organization of Central New York has been eyeing the property on East Genesee Street for months, and has had plans in the works to tear the existing building down in order to erect an annex to their current McDonald House down the block - the only thing standing in their way was the possibility that the house could be declared a historical landmark, preventing them from demolition.
Syracuse residents and leaders were in an uproar - support the preservation of a historical 19th century house? Or support the humanitarian efforts of the Ronald McDonald organization?
The Ronald McDonald House opened its doors in Central New York back in 1982. They pledge to assist and provide temporary homes for families whose children are seriously ill or injured and are being treated in the area. Their current house has room for 16 families, not nearly as much room as one would find sufficient for a house serving three large area hospitals: University Hospital, St. Joseph's Hospital Health Center, and Crouse Hospital.
Several councilors noted that it was important, in this case especially, to keep personal feelings out of the decision making and focus on the law.
"Our job is to take the emotion out of this and look at the city charter," said Councilor Kathleen Joy.
Unfortunately, the vote didn't sway her way. The councilors needed seven "yes" votes to declare the building a historical landmark. They fell short by one.
The Ronald McDonald House of CNY has served nearly 17,000 families since opening their doors almost 30 years ago, and it looks like after today's vote, they'll be able to serve many more.
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