Waitsburg taking bids on historic city hall building

WAITSBURG—On September 21, 2022, Waitsburg City Council will consider bids for 147 Main Street, which until recently housed City Hall.

The city decided to surplus the building last year and accepted a bid for the assessed value of $205,000. The accepted bidder planned to build apartments upstairs and create retail space on the ground floor. Unfortunately, the sale fell through in June.

The city reopened the bidding process on July 5, 2022, requesting proposals (RFP) for the historic building. Bidders must submit proposals by 2:00 p.m. on September 16. The City Council will consider bids, including the proposed purchase price and use for the property, at its regular meeting on September 21, 2022.

The First National Bank built the building in 1889. The City of Waitsburg took over the building in 1974, moving city hall from the Weller Public Library building.

Some upgrades were made over the years, including uncovering the keystone windows, painting the interior and exterior, and replacing some flooring. The ground floor housed the city’s offices until City Hall relocated to its new building at 106 Main Street. The council decided to purchase the newer building last year to avoid the significant costs associated with ADA upgrades and repairs. The price for renovations was projected to cost the city significantly more than it would be for a non-government owner.

With the recent sales of commercial buildings left vacant for many years, there are no longer any historically significant buildings left for sale. This beautiful brick building, with arched windows, stunning light, and a built-in vault, offers a unique opportunity for someone who is not afraid of a challenge.

Contact City Administrator Randy Hinchliffe at 509-337-6371 during business hours for more information and to arrange a viewing. The RFP and RFP information, appraisal, and other information about the building are available at http://www.cityofwaitsburg.org.