An American Fork doctor who wants to renovate the historic Harrington School as a cultural center is appealing to the public for moral and financial support.

"We want to do it with the community. This is not a Bell family project," Dr. Carl Bell told about 60 people at a meeting Wednesday.The Harrington School Foundation, Bell's proposed nonprofit organization that would fund the project, sent questionnaires to residents this week asking, "Who should own it?" and "Who will help?" Bell estimates the multiphase renovation including a theater, reception center, art gallery, museum and cafe to cost $2 million. Responses are running three to one in favor of the project, he said.

Bell bought the 92-year-old school, the old Alpine School District Administration Building and an adjoining parking lot from the school district in January.

But American Fork city filed an eminent domain complaint against Bell Feb. 13 in 4th District Court. City officials want the buildings and parking lot for future expansion. The complaint also says the city will consider razing the buildings for new offices.

That scares historic preservationists, residents and acclaimed local artists whose works would be displayed in the old school.

"If the city acquires this building, it will be torn down," said sculptor Dennis Smith at the meeting. Smith said the Bells have taken a chance to reach their dream so "the least I can do is stand behind them."

Composer Janice Kapp Perry also has consented to be part of an exhibit that would show how songs are created. "My most often-asked question is, `How did you get started?' " she said. The evolution of a work of art would be a central theme of Bell's Harrington Square.

"With the centennial year coming, I think it's a time to build and preserve rather than tear down," she said.

Mayor Jess Green said the city's main purpose for wanting the school and administration buildings is not to tear them down. Most city officials doubt Bell's plans will come to fruition. Green, who cast

the deciding vote in favor of eminent domain, might be changing his thinking.

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"Frankly, I'd rather give him the chance to do his thing," Green said Thursday.

Bell, who intends to file a reply to American Fork's court complaint Monday, sent the city a proposed out-of-court resolution Feb. 23. Green said he's looking the offer over. "I'd rather work it out," the mayor said. "I'd rather not have to go through all this court stuff."

Bell prefers to spend his money on renovation, not attorneys. But "we're not ready to give it up. We're ready to sacrifice some more," he said.

At Wednesday's meeting, Councilman John McKinney said he's "worked long and hard to get the council and mayor to back off. I have one more chance Saturday morning." The council intends to hold a work session Saturday at 8 a.m.

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