WEST FARGO (KFGO-AM) - Bonanzaville in West Fargo has learned that the historic St. Johns Lutheran Church, heavily damaged by fire at the Pioneer Village contains asbestos. Test results confirm the substance in the structure. Abatement crews will have to remove the asbestos before demolition can start.
Cass County Historical Society President John Monilaws says the work will cost "in the thousands of dollars."
He says a fund raiser will be held in early October to help with demolition costs. It's an auction of antique items saved from the damaged church. A fund has also been set up at any Bell State Bank for anyone wishing to donate to the cause.
Monilaws says it's hoped to have a closed church from Christine, North Dakota moved to the site of the razed church before winter.