Germantown Village Board approves demolition of Flower Source buildings for $50,791

The Village Board of Germantown convened on March 3, 2025, to discuss several key agenda items, primarily focusing on property acquisitions and demolition contracts related to the Flower Source site.

The meeting began with an update on the upcoming property closings. The Village is set to close on the Flower Source property, valued at $1.7 million, and an adjacent vacant one-acre parcel priced at $700,000. This closing is scheduled for Wednesday, March 5, 2025. In contrast, the property currently leased to Ascension Columbia St. Mary's, valued at $5 million, is tentatively scheduled for closing on June 30, 2025. The initial closings will be funded through the village's cash reserves.

A significant point of discussion was the creation of a Tax Increment District (TID) to potentially reimburse the general reserves for the amounts spent on these properties, contingent upon board approval. The board had previously directed staff to begin this process on February 17.

The conversation shifted to the contract for the demolition of buildings on the Flower Source site, which is estimated to cost $50,791. Some board members expressed concerns about the funding source for this demolition, questioning whether it should be covered by the current property owner rather than village funds. An amendment was proposed to require the current owner to pay for the demolition, but this motion ultimately failed after a vote.

Trustees raised various concerns regarding the potential hidden costs associated with the demolition, including the presence of lead or asbestos, and the need to manage existing wells and septic systems on the property. The board discussed the importance of addressing these issues promptly to mitigate safety hazards and prepare the site for future development.

Trustee opinions varied, with some advocating for immediate action to proceed with the demolition to enhance the property’s value for future buyers, while others cautioned against rushing into decisions without fully understanding the financial implications.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted the village's ongoing efforts to manage property acquisitions and redevelopment, with a focus on balancing immediate action with fiscal responsibility. The board's next steps will involve finalizing the property closings and addressing the demolition contract, while also considering the broader implications of the TID proposal.