New owners plan demolition of historic building in Coos Bay's Empire District

In the heart of Coos Bay, a historic building at 1088 Newmark in the Empire District stands as a testament to the city’s past, yet its future hangs in the balance. During the recent City Council meeting, officials discussed the ongoing challenges surrounding this property, which has long been plagued by disrepair and unauthorized access.

The building, once a vibrant part of the community, has faced significant neglect, leading to safety concerns. The previous owners struggled to maintain the site, but a recent change in ownership has brought a glimmer of hope. The new owners, a lending organization that reclaimed the property, have shown a willingness to engage with city officials. They have taken steps to secure the site with fencing and have been responsive to issues that have arisen, such as maintaining the integrity of the fencing.

City officials shared that the new owners have made strides toward addressing the building's condition. They have contracted a hazardous materials consultant to assess the site for any dangerous materials, a crucial step before moving forward with demolition plans. This assessment is expected to inform the next steps in the building's future, with a demolition permit anticipated to be filed in the coming weeks.

While there was some discussion about the city potentially acquiring the property, negotiations did not yield a suitable agreement. The city’s inquiry into purchasing the site revealed that a middle ground could not be reached, leaving the future of the building in the hands of its current owners.

As the city looks ahead, the hope is that these developments will lead to a revitalization of the area, transforming a once-neglected landmark into a safer and more inviting space for the community. The council's commitment to monitoring the situation reflects a broader goal of enhancing the city’s landscape and ensuring the safety of its residents.