By: Claire Cutting

As the future of the historic Sugarcreek Elementary building remains uncertain, new developments have emerged that could shape its next chapter. At the February 27 Bellbrook-Sugarcreek Board of Education meeting, the Bellbrook Lions Club introduced a new proposal that brings fresh ideas and questions to the conversation about what should be done with the century-old building.

The Lions Club, a longtime local service organization known for hosting Bellbrook’s annual SummerFest, presented three possible redevelopment concepts centered around the idea of community use of the property. These proposals reflect the growing interest in preserving and restoring the site while still keeping it in the hands of the Bellbrook community members. 

The three newly proposed concepts differ in structure, but each emphasizes Bellbrook’s community identity and values.

Concept 1 and Concept 2 both include tearing down the three-story Sugarcreek Elementary building. In its place, the plans suggest building new infrastructure that would support local events and community organizations. These concepts would take advantage the property’s proximity to downtown Bellbrook and Sackett-Wright Park.

One key feature in these proposals is the continuation of the Lions SummerFest at the site, as well as the addition of a clubhouse or gathering space including concessions and restrooms for public use.

Concept 3 is the most preservation-focused of the proposals and it involves keeping the existing Sugarcreek Elementary building. It would be done under the oversight of a new entity, which would allow for the reuse of the historic structure while still meeting current community needs.

In all three scenarios, the Lions Club would partner with professional planning entities and collaborate with other stakeholders to bring the plans to life.

“Our message is no matter what concept you decide to go with, we’re still interested,” said a representative from the Lions Club who spoke at the board meeting.

The Lions Club has expressed interest in acquiring two of the three proposed parcels containing the property. A major setback of this proposal is that 60% of the land lies within a floodplain, significantly limiting the amount of development that could occur there.

Despite this, The Lions Club remains confident. “Getting that building down is no easy task, but we’re up to it,” the representative said. “We’ve already done some pretty major projects.”

Still, professional property planning and compliance with zoning, environmental, and accessibility codes would be necessary if any of the proposals were to move forward.

As discussions continue, students are also beginning to imagine what the future of the site could look like.

“I think it would be pretty cool if there was a clubhouse,” junior Natasha Leghart said. “Bellbrook could use more gathering spaces where we can hang out, so it would be nice if they could organize events there instead of worrying about venues.”

Her comments reflect a broader hope among residents that any decision made by the Board not only honors the property’s legacy but also meets current community needs. Senior Catey Caldwell has a slightly different take. 

“There is potential in the structure and I think it should be repurposed for the good of the community,” Caldwell said. “I think if it were a community effort to create a space we all use, it would be really beneficial.”

The Lions Club was one of several organizations invited to the February board meeting to express interest in the site. While the Board of Education has not yet made an official decision, these three concepts represent a significant shift in the conversation. They have gone from asking what to do with a deteriorating building to imagining what the space could become for future generations.