The Vandalia City Council has officially rejected bids for demolition for a home at 329 West Randolph Street. And, they will now look to get bids from developers to potentially rehabilitate the property and get people back living there.
A special meeting was held on Monday night with 3 items on the agenda. The 3rd item was to approve or reject the demolition bids for the home on Randolph Street. That matter had been on the agenda at last Monday’s meeting, but it was tabled. Developer Kyle Barker had brought forth a proposal to the City of Vandalia to potentially sell the home to an area developer at a low price and then they would rehabilitate what is considered a historic home instead of going through demolition for the property. Alderman Bret Brosman says he likes the idea of fixing up the property and wants it to be open to all developers.
Alderman Russ Stunkel wants to see some sort of timeline on getting the property fixed, and Alderman Steve Barker says he thinks taking the opportunity to fix up such a historic home is one the city shouldn’t pass up.
After quite a bit of discussion, the council eventually all voted against the demolition (a 7-0 vote with Alderman Mike Hobler absent) and would like to proceed with attempting to find a developer to sell the property to and fix up the home. City Attorney Ryan Connor explained what the next step would now be.
Mayor Doug Knebel says he understands wanting to do this with potentially certain properties, but he also adds most of the homes they have had up for demolition recently were beyond repair.
Meanwhile, there was a brief question of conflict of interest during Monday’s meeting. The proposal that was brought to the City was from Kyle Barker. And, Steve Barker–Kyle’s Father–is, of course, an Alderman. Stunkel pointed out the potential issue during the meeting.
But, after the meeting, City Attorney Connor explained why it was not a conflict in his opinion.
The matter will likely garner further discussion at the City Council’s meetings in September.
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