Demolition Denied: Historic Macon Church Will Remain

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Members of the Macon-Bibb County Planning and Zoning Commission opposed the demolition of the historic Tremont Temple Baptist Church on Forsyth Road.

On Monday, the Tremont Temple congregation and members of the community heard testimonies from Historic Macon’s Executive Director Josh Rogers, and from real estate agent Jim Rollins, who represents the purchaser, Dunkin’ Donuts and the church.

Rollins says the church pastor, Reverend Camile Holmes just wants closure to the deal, because the congregation in knee-deep financially. He adds Historic Macon has a right to intervene during the deal between Dunkin’ Donuts and the church, because the building is a part of Macon’s history.

“Historic Macon can make an offer, but they can’t buy the church, because the contract is still enforced,” Rollins says “The purchaser can still purchase the property.”

Historic Macon agrees to comply with the same terms of the contract Tremont drafted for Dunkin’ Donuts with hopes the congregation will consider selling the lot and building to them for $200,000.

Rogers added there is more than $60,000 dollars in renovations and repair work that needs to be done, but his foundation is prepared to take on the challenge and buy the building.

“Dunkin’ Donuts…their top priority is to get their business open. Our top priority is to save the building. Sometimes you can’t see everybody’s vision line up directly,” says Rogers.

Rollins says with the demolition canceled, he plans to sit down with all three parties to renegotiate the terms.

“Having enough money you can save anything, and that’s what the choice is for Historic Macon.”