West Des Moines | https://www.facebook.com/cityofwdm/posts/pfbid0p3997LkqjDwRM9LiKYw8pZCk1nUErwTLSHMNYpvVrjCHroCpuzRgVJA1fz13deeWl?__tn__=%2CO*F
West Des Moines | https://www.facebook.com/cityofwdm/posts/pfbid0p3997LkqjDwRM9LiKYw8pZCk1nUErwTLSHMNYpvVrjCHroCpuzRgVJA1fz13deeWl?__tn__=%2CO*F
Continuing a discussion that initially started during a meeting earlier this month, West Des Moines City Council on Dec. 19 continued to debate the purchase of property at 329 6th St.
During its most recent session, which was streamed on YouTube, the council noted that it had tabled the discussion from its previous meeting to see if the single-family home on the property could be moved, a cost that would be incurred by anyone who would take the home from the city. Razing the home would cost from $20,000 to $30,000, Clyde Evans, Community and Economic Development director for the city noted during the session.
“The house could be moved,” Evans told the council, though he noted he did not get a quote on moving the structure. “It depends on how far you are moving it and what interference you might have in terms of utilities.”
Council members noted that they would give the house away as long as it was an agreement that would benefit everyone involved, it was noted during the session, adding that they are not considering putting the house out to bid because it would cost too much and by having someone remove the structure, the city would save demolition costs.
“We would make the property available and they would be responsible for backfilling the property and removing any foundations so the property is prepped and ready for development,” Evans said during the meeting. “We’ve done this before. Sometimes, we've been successful. Other times there has been no interest.”
Council was seeking the property to add additional parking in Valley Junction, with the city already owning property to the north and south of the lot, and nobody will be displaced. Council also pointed out it wants to give everyone in the community equal opportunity to get the house, whether it is sold or given away.
Moreover, the council also discussed options for addressing parking situations in the future, it was noted during the meeting.
Council voted in favor of the purchase during the Dec. 19 meeting, and city officials will consider how to offer the house to the public.
Alerts Sign-up