St. Pete City Council denied a proposal to adaptively reuse the historic Euclid Church (921 10th Ave. N.) as an events venue and bed and breakfast, leaving its owners, Irene and Noam Krasniansky, disheartened and uncertain about the building’s future. Despite investing $1.6 million into the property since purchasing it 15 months ago, the couple now fears the church is an unsellable asset, with their vision for restoration unrealized.
The Krasnianskys had secured a recommendation for approval from Derek Kilborn of the Planning and Historic Preservation Division. However, during a November 12 meeting, the City Council reached a 3-3 tie, effectively barring the commercial re-use of the nearly 100-year-old Romanesque-Gothic Revival structure.
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“How can a commission that protects historical buildings turn down this proposal?” Noam asked in frustration.
The resident’s concerns prevail
Local residents opposed the proposal, voicing concerns about increased traffic, noise, and reduced street parking that could stem from events and commercial activities. In response, the Krasnianskys presented traffic analyses, letters of community support, and an endorsement from Preserve The Burg. Despite their efforts, critics argued that these measures failed to address the potential negative impacts on the neighborhood.
The Council’s decision reflected these concerns, leaving the Krasnianskys pondering their next steps.
What’s next for Euclid Church?
While everyone agrees on preserving the church, the debate centers on how it should be re-used. Residential conversion remains an option, but Irene Krasniansky opposes the idea: “We want this building to be part of the community instead of cutting it into little pieces and dividing it into sardine cans. We want it to continue to be the grandeur of the building that it is.”
The Euclid Church, constructed circa 1926, has long been admired for its architectural beauty but suffered from years of neglect before the Krasnianskys began restoration efforts, spending $300,000 to repair the facade.
This isn’t the first attempt to save the building. A previous owner’s plan to create mixed-use office and residential space also fell through. Architect Paul Ries, who worked on both projects, noted, “This is probably the last shot we have to save this building.”
For now, the fate of the Euclid Church remains uncertain, as its owners and the community grapple with finding a viable path forward.
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