By Cynthia Koons
He could not specify how old Chang is, just that he was most likely in his 60s. His retirement takes effect in July.
Chang and Clepper have been at the center of a debate that has swirled around the church since the summer of 2002 when a developer proposed demolishing the 114-year-old building and replacing it with a high-rise apartment complex and small church.
Plans for development have since been tabled, but community members and church leaders continue to argue over whether the church building or entire property should be preserved. Part of the congregation has sought landmarking status for the church from the city.
Chang's retirement came as a surprise to City Councilman John Liu (D-Flushing), who has been involved in the preservation debate that flared up again earlier this year.
“He's been wanting to retire for a few years now,” Liu said. “What he's expressed to me was that he's concerned about leaving the church in worse fiscal shape than when he took over the reins.”
The financial stability of the church has been grounds for the debate over whether the religious institution should be allowed to sell part of its property in order to offset costs of maintaining the historic building.
Liu said that from what he has heard, Chang has been a dedicated church leader who will be missed.
“Chang is a well-respected minister of the church,” Liu said. “He was well loved by his congregation.
“As far as the landmarking efforts, I wouldn't think that his departure or his retirement would change things one way or the other,” he added.
A date for the public hearing on the preservation of the church building has not yet been scheduled by the city Landmarks Preservation Commission.
Chang did not return calls for comment.
Reach reporter Cynthia Koons by e-mail at news@timesledger.com or call 718-229-0300, Ext. 141.
