After discussion on the matter at their last two council meetings, the Vandalia City Council on Tuesday night made a decision on a property previously scheduled for demolition. The property at 329 W. Randolph Street was one of two properties set to be voted on at the second meeting of the council in August. At that meeting, it was brought up that a local businessman believed the home could be restored and could be brought to usable condition. Mayor Doug Knebel explained that they had a bid for demolition and after discussion, the council tabled that bid before later holding a special meeting and ultimately rejected the bid. City attorney Ryan Conner explained that he had looked into any agreement including benchmarks as to when the city would need to see certain project benchmarks on a timeline including the project being completed in a years’ time. One clarification asked for by Mayor Knebel was is they had to approve any bids that may come in if not to their liking and Conner said they were not required to approve any bid.
Alderman Bob Bowen addressed the matter saying the city should look at trying to work with someone attempting a project like this one.
And Bowen went on to say they take chances with other things, why not with this project.
Following the discussion, the council approved the matter by a vote of 6-0 with aldermen Andy Lester and Steve Barker not present for the meeting.
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