Concerning news about the possible move of the Pitkin depot

Justin Kerns recently informed me of a developing situation about the possible move of the Pitkin depot.

Below is the content from Facebook:

**Historic Train Depot for Sale in Pitkin! 🚂🏛️**

Attention history enthusiasts and entrepreneurs! The iconic Train Depot in the Town of Pitkin is now available for sale. This historic gem offers two purchasing options:

1. **Relocate the Depot** to a town that truly values its historical significance for **$350,000**.

2. **Acquire the entire property** for **$700,000**, using it as a residence or short term rental.

Recently, a decision was made by the Pitkin City Council to NOT rezone the Train Depot property for commercial purposes.  The possibility of establishing a charming coffee shop or a museum, inviting many tourists to appreciate the rich history of this remarkable building is off the table because of Trustee Tom Gibb and Trustee Ramon Reid.

🚨 Important Update from the Pitkin Trustee Meeting 🚨

On Feb 18 2025, the trustees discussed a critical agenda item regarding the preservation of our historic Train Depot and the proposed rezoning of the property to commercial. The decision ended in a split vote: Jerra Garitson, and Ed Pianalto voted in favor of the rezoning, while Tom Gibb and Ramon Reid voted against it.

As the new owner, I regret to inform you that this change will lead to the removal of the Train Depot, significantly altering the historic landscape of Pitkin. I had hoped to be well into the renovation process by this summer, but those plans are now on hold.

The Train Depot is not just a building; it represents a piece of Pitkin’s history. Its preservation is essential for maintaining the town's unique character and cultural heritage.

Historic properties often serve as landmarks that contribute to a community’s identity. Their removal can lead to a loss of historical context and a sense of place for residents.

The decision to rezone the Train Depot for commercial use raises questions about how it will affect local tourism. Historic sites often attract visitors, and their preservation can be a boon for local businesses.

The outcome of the trustee meeting regarding the Train Depot is a pivotal moment for Pitkin. While the decision may facilitate some commercial development, it also raises important questions about community identity, historical preservation, and the balance between growth and heritage. Exploring alternatives, and fostering open dialogue will be essential in navigating this change and ensuring that the town’s history is honored as it evolves.

Your opinions matter! If you have thoughts or concerns about this decision, please feel free to reach out to me directly. You can also contact the town clerk at thetownofpitkin@gmail.com. Trustee Ed Pianalto edpianalto@yahoo.com trustee Tom Gibb tomgibb20@gmail.com trustee Ramon reed pitkinramon@gmail.com Trustee Jerra Garetson jerragaretson@gmail.com Let’s engage in a constructive dialogue about the future of our town!

#Pitkin #HistoricPreservation #CommunityEngagement #TownMeeting