BRIEF: Committee set to discuss Smith Hall

The University wants to demolish the building to make room for a science and technology institute -- which administrators hope will be funded by the Department of Defense -- that will provide additional laboratory space for the science and engineering departments. Smith Hall was declared a historic building last year, forcing the University to receive permission from the Commission before altering or destroying the structure. Members of the History and Sociology of Science department -- which is housed in the building -- are disputing the University's proposal, claiming Smith Hall has great historical value. The meeting is designed to clarify arguments for and against demolishing Smith Hall. The subcommittee, which serves as an advisory body to the Historic Commission, will meet on December 18 at 9 a.m. in room 110 of the Annenberg School. -- Roxanne Patel

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