Repairs Planned for Burned-Out Church Property

The Bethany Gospel Mission Home & Chapel is undergoing a transformation of sorts.

The 14-room structure operated by the on Stockton Street was built about 100 years ago, but has been the subject of concern by neighbors since a fire destroyed the building a decade ago.

Some members of the community are worried and say the building needs vast improvement. Some residents of Stockton Street have put their concerns in writing, putting together a petition calling for its improvement.

According to borough officials, windows are broken and there is evidence of severe damage throughout the building, including various openings on the exterior of the home.

Council members said this is the first time they have been made aware of the petition and potential repairs, and say that they need more information and will have to review plans.

"It is premature to make any recommendation or take any action until we see the paperwork," said Borough Councilman Dimitri Musing said.

A statement issued by Bethany says it will seek tax-exempt status once it receives a certificate of occupancy, which would mean that repairs were made and the building was up to building codes.

"A lot of work and progress has been made in terms of the physical restoration in the past six to eight months or so, and we anticipate completing the remaining work (largely on the second floor) in the coming few months," the statement said.

Church officials say they are prepared to follow proper planning and zoning rules and that they will only request a return to tax-exempt status after passing inspections.

"We want to stimulate some improvement of the property," said Chris Moraitis, who lives in the neighborhood. "I think it is important for the borough to enforce and make the improvements. We are not looking to castigate anyone."

Editor's Note: Due to personal connections to this story, Editor Geoffrey Wertime was not involved in the writing or editing of this story, though he did take the photographs accompanying it. This article was overseen instead by Regional Editor .