The Diocese of Toledo faces potential legal action from city leaders after threatening to sue over Toledo City Council’s historic landmark designation process for two permanently closed Catholic churches, according to local reports from WTOL and 13abc.
Diocese Threatens Lawsuit Over Landmark Bid
The dispute centers on Sacred Heart Catholic Church, located at 509 Oswald Street, and Good Shepherd Catholic Church, located at 550 Clark Street. Toledo City Council initiated the designation process following a resolution brought forward by Councilman Theresa Gadus. Council members are considering the step to preserve the cultural and architectural history of the neighborhood.
A Yearlong Study of Neighborhood Identity
According to Councilman Adam Martinez, the city hired a third-party consultant to study historically significant structures across Toledo over a period of more than a year.
“It’s not just about the built environment or the structure in the building, but it’s that sense of place that these buildings create that we need to preserve,” Martinez told WTOL. He pointed out that generations of residents celebrated baptisms, quinceañeras, and weddings at the sites.
Surprise Postings Spark Diocesan Outrage
The Diocese of Toledo strongly opposes the move. It stated it was surprised to discover public notices and signs posted outside the properties on Tuesday regarding a September 10 Plan Commission hearing.
In an official statement, the Diocese asserted that it was never consulted or informed of the action. It added that it neither requested nor desires landmark status for the properties.
Before permanently closing the churches, the Diocese and respective parishes conducted a comprehensive due diligence process. This included town hall meetings and engineering studies, according to the statement. Those studies revealed severe structural damage at the former Sacred Heart building. The Diocese has already begun repurposing sacred art and relocating stained-glass windows to other active churches.
First Amendment Defense and Cost Warnings
The Diocese maintains that city involvement in private property governed by church law falls outside municipal authority. The organization warned that if the city proceeds with the designation, it will pursue all available legal remedies to protect its First Amendment religious freedom rights. It added that the litigation would likely cost the city considerable taxpayer funds in legal fees.
Martinez disputed claims that the city acted in secret. He told WTOL that the initiative has been discussed openly during council sessions for over a year and a half. Rather than engage in a legal battle, Martinez stated that he hopes the Diocese will collaborate with the city. He wants to identify potential developers, utilize historic preservation tax credits, and determine future uses for the buildings to offset renovation costs.
Residents Weigh In on Architectural Value
Neighbors near both properties have expressed mixed reactions regarding the architectural beauty and cultural symbolism of the structures.
Keith Lenz, who lives near Good Shepherd, told 13abc that the building is unique and features gorgeous interior artwork. Matt Oneail, a resident near Sacred Heart, noted that the structure serves as an important symbol for the block despite its current condition.
The Toledo City Plan Commission is scheduled to hold a hearing on the proposal, after which the recommendation will return to the Toledo City Council for final approval.
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