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Council OKs One Of Two Resolutions Regarding Butt Ugly Building

Jenna Carlesso

July 12, 2010

The city council tonight passed one of the two resolutions brought before it regarding the "Butt Ugly Building" on Main Street.

The council passed a resolution authorizing the city's redevelopment agency to purchase 1161 Main St. ("Butt Ugly Building"). It referred a second resolution -- which authorizes the acquisition of the property -- to the planning and zoning commission and the planning and economic development committee for review.

The difference? Councilman Kenneth Kennedy said the resolution that was passed allows the redevelopment agency to put down a deposit for the property and to have the building inspected. But the contract allowing the city to buy and tear down the building won't be executed until the second resolution is passed.

"This is just starting the ball rolling," Kennedy said.

The cost of the property is $625,000, which will be paid for by city bond money, officials have said. It will cost an additional $300,000 to $500,000 to demolish the structure (also covered by bond money). Those familiar with the project said they hope to close the deal in August and begin demolition in early September.

City officials said Monday that it would cost more for litigation if the city were to take the building by eminent domain than to purchase the property at the proposed price.

A public hearing on the acquisition of the building will be held in council chambers at city hall on July 19.