Libertyville officials behind Brainerd restoration

A renewed push to convert a deteriorating landmark into a centerpiece community center has the support of the Libertyville village board.

How that will translate into actual progress at the Brainerd building and Jackson Gym is to be determined, though at this point there is no plan to provide funding for a project estimated to cost as much as $15 million.

"I think it's a village treasure. We need to find a way to restore it without great expense to the taxpayers," Mayor Terry Weppler said.

Village trustees also backed the idea following a plea for assistance by members of the Brainerd Community Center Inc. and others intent on preserving the heritage of the former Libertyville High School on Route 176 near the downtown area.

Supporters say the matter has to become a community priority to harness volunteer expertise and advance the project by seeking available grants or federal stimulus money.

"We need to get to work," said Trustee Todd Gaines, who attended school there.

The Brainerd group is a volunteer organization charged by the village with leading an effort first suggested by a citizens commission, of which Weppler was a member, in 2004.

But fundraising has fallen far short with only $11,000 in the bank.

The push was made because Weppler and three running mates who won trustee seats in April represent a complete change on the village board. The Brainerd group also has several new directors.

"A critical reassessment of our game plan is needed. We need the village to take a leading role," John Snow, president of the Brainerd group, told the village board recently.

Snow described the conversion of the old school and gym into a multipurpose venue akin to the Gorton Community Center in Lake Forest as "probably the most ambitious community project in the past 100 years."

"I'm asking you to take up the flag and lead the charge," he said.

Last summer, the school, built in 1916, and the gym, completed in 1929, were listed on the National Register of Historic Places. That designation does not prevent them from being torn down, but is said to open the door for grants and other sources of funding.

Both are owned by the Libertyville-Vernon Hills Area High School District 128. The village and school district negotiated a long-term lease agreement with the first payment of $250,000 due in late 2011.

Snow said the immediate priority is to replace the roof, which would cost $50,000. Opening the doors for public use would cost a minimum of $3 million.

"They're not asking for the village's money. They're asking for the village's support to get it done," Libertyville resident Tim Anderson told the board.

What that might entail will be discussed at a future meeting of the village board's special projects and buildings committee.

Bill McNeil, who has lived near Brainerd for 17 years, questioned why the building has been allowed to deteriorate.

"They've let a beautiful building go," he told the board. "Do something. Either tear it down or fix it."