The Foley City Council has taken action to address necessary repairs and preservation efforts for the Foley Art Center building, a historic structure that stands as one of the oldest in the city— more than 110 years.

In a meeting held on Tuesday, Jan. 2, the City Council voted to proceed with plans to replace deteriorating siding and encapsulate the foundation of the building located on North McKenzie Street. Jeff Phillips, Foley's construction manager, emphasized that these measures are essential to safeguard the historic integrity of the structure.

"This is one of the oldest houses," Phillips said. "Over the years, there have been methods taken to try and stop this moisture from buckling the floors. This encapsulation will completely seal the underside so no moisture will get to those floors."

Phillips further highlighted the need for replacing the siding.

"Over the years, the siding had been painted over when it rotted, and it just keeps showing back up," he said.

Phillips added that some siding had been previously replaced, and the current project aims to address the remaining damaged wood.

The building, dating back to around 1905 and predating Foley's incorporation in 1915, has a rich history. Initially serving as the office of Claude Peteet Real Estate for several decades, the building closed after Peteet's demise in the 1960s and remained unused for almost 50 years.

Acquired later by the city of Foley, the historic structure now houses the Foley Art Center. The approved repairs and preservation work signify the city's commitment to maintaining and protecting this significant piece of its cultural and architectural heritage.