The historic Belleview Biltmore Hotel in Belleair is one step closer to being demolished.

On Monday night, town commissioners took the first steps in approving to demolish most of the 118-year-old structure and replace it with a smaller inn and residential housing. But before they did so, they got an earful from a packed house at the hearing.

Residents on both sides of the issue voiced their concerns. Some want to preserve the massive structure and restore it to its former self, while others say it’s time to move forward and redevelop the property.

In the end, commissioners voted unanimously to move forward with the new development.

Even so, residents like Rae Claire Johnson say the fight is far from over.

“We have a federal lawsuit against how they’ve conducted business in this town in regards to the demolition permit," Johnson said. “And I don’t believe that they’re going to go down the path that they’re choosing.”

Another public hearing is scheduled for Nov. 13. During that hearing, commissioners will take a final vote on the demolition permit, rezoning and the new development.