Save The Cottage in the Woods Committee Forms

They call themselves the "Save the " Committee.

Making their first appearance before the Forks Township Board of Supervisors Thursday night, the committee's core members called on the board to spare the cottage from demolition.

Ellie Reismeier, president of the Forks Area Art Society, told the supervisors that the committee will come up with a plan to alleviate taxpayers from having to foot the bill to save the 700 Zucksville Road cottage from the wrecking ball.

Reismeier and the three members of the newly formed committee told supervisors of their vision for the cottage.

They believe that corporate sponsors could fund the much-needed repairs while retired professionals could create a nature trail and possible arboretum around the cottage.

Committee members also believe that the building could serve for multiple uses.

The art society could hold meetings and showcase artists while the township's historical society could use it to store and exhibit items.

"We would also like to give art lessons there," Reismeier said. "Forks Township is a bedroom community. There is nothing for arts and culture. We'd like you to consider our plea."

The new committee was formed after gathering support when a stated that a majority favored saving the cottage and refurbishing it for future use.

"We've been contacting people to join," Reismeier said.

Township officials said they have not made any decisions on the fate of the cottage, nor would they in the near .

"We're not in a position to make a decision to tear down the cottage at this point and time," Supervisor John O'Neil said. "Continue your enthusiasm."

He instructed the committee to work with Township Manager John Cornell on trying to raise funds to save the cottage.

"It sounds like the ball is really rolling," Supervisors Chairman Erik Chuss said. "You seem to have tremendous support."