The Stillwater City Council on Nov. 17 approved a contract to demolish accessory structures and perform asbestos abatement at the Booker T. Washington School site, a property the city acquired in 2022 as part of a long‑term preservation and reuse plan.

City staff explained the accessory structures are not intended for preservation and require removal and asbestos abatement before any restoration of the main building can proceed. "This action would allow all to see the building to be preserved," staff said, adding that the Washington School Advisory Committee, formed in 2024, and the Washington School Heritage Foundation are coordinating restoration and fundraising efforts.

Staff recommended awarding bid 18-20-25 to Midwest Wrecking Company for $120,400.66, which includes add alternates for architecture, design, asbestos survey, professional services and contingency. Staff said the tourism advisory committee recommended authorizing use of the visitor amenities fund for asbestos abatement and demolition work, an action the advisory committee had framed not to exceed $200,000.

Councilors moved and approved the staff recommendation by a 4-0 vote; staff said procurement has tentatively scheduled a pre‑demolition meeting and hopes to see work begin quickly. The council recorded no opposition; members praised proceeding under budget compared with earlier estimates.

The project is intended to remove hazardous materials and non‑preservable structures so that the Washington School Heritage Foundation can concentrate on fundraising and restoring the main building for education, historical displays and community uses. Staff did not provide a firm demolition start date in the recorded discussion but indicated next steps include scheduling and a pre‑demolition meeting.