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DAYTON — Community members wishing to preserve the former Julienne High School claimed a minor victory Friday after a Montgomery County judge issued a temporary restraining order to halt demolition of the school and convent.
The order, signed by Judge Steven K. Dankof, came about a month before demolition was to begin on March 5. Now a hearing on the matter has been scheduled for Feb. 15 at 9 a.m. before Judge Dennis Langer.
Members of the Coalition to Save Julienne had previously met with Ronald Lee, president of the Dayton Public Schools Board of Education, to request a six-month delay of the demolition to find possible funding for renovation and determine the most constructive use.
“It’s not the six months we wanted,” said Gail Horvath, coalition member, former teacher and author of the book “Our Dear Old Julienne.” “But it will give us some time.”
Dayton Public Schools spokeswoman Jill Moberley said Saturday night she had not been made aware of the temporary restraining order, and could not comment.
Meanwhile, Horvath said a “large” meeting will be held Feb. 9 that is expected to include at least two persons or organizations interested in the reuse of the buildings.
A consultant is also expected to attend as well as coalition members, she said.
“We think there are groups and individuals who are ready to find ways to do wonderful things with these buildings,” she said.
“That will be the main thrust of the meeting on Thursday.”
Julienne has been empty since 2007.
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