We’re happy to see that one of Butler County’s historic buildings will be spared the wrecking ball for now.

While demolition is underway on almost all of the buildings on the 29 acres that formerly housed Armco and AK Steel’s stainless processing works, officials this week held off on razing Plant 2, which closed in 2004.

The property once was home to Bantam Car Company, which created the Jeep for use in World War II.

The property’s new owners, Capital Environmental Risk Transfer Alliance, said they recognize the historical significance of the building and want to make certain demolition is the only viable option.

The Cincinnati-based company said a structural engineer will evaluate the property to determine if it is sound enough to house a new business.

If so, CERTA will lease the plant to a new tenant.

There is no current plan for restoration of the building should the structural report determine that it is sound.

Mark Gordon, the county’s chief of economic development and planning, said CERTA has been successful nationwide “in acquiring discontinued places and turning brownfields into vibrant manufacturing and industrial sites.”

He said CERTA’s plan for the former Plant 2 is to lease it to industries and manufacturers, which will bring employment and economic development to the county.

“We couldn’t ask for a better partner to work with,” Gordon said.

We remain positive that the historic Bantam plant, Butler’s claim to fame, can be saved and used by a new tenant and preserve a major site of Butler County’s long history of manufacturing.

— JGG