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Commission directs manager to explore options for state building at 200 Opelika Blvd.
Summary
Vice Mayor Kelly's resolution instructs the city manager to explore opportunities to secure the state-owned building at 200 Opelika Boulevard and report back; commissioners noted the city holds a long-term land lease for the site and historical expectations of municipal space in the building.
The City Commission on Aug. 25 unanimously directed the city manager to explore opportunities to secure the state building located at 200 Opelika Boulevard.
The resolution, sponsored by Vice Mayor Kelly, instructs the manager to investigate whether the state intends to sell or otherwise dispose of the building, to estimate acquisition costs if applicable, and to report back to the commission. Kelly said the guidance is intended to ensure the city monitors any change of state plans and to preserve opportunities for downtown redevelopment and civic uses.
Commissioners discussed background details. Commissioner Santiago asked whether the state had announced the building for sale; staff said not to the city’s knowledge. Vice Mayor Kelly and others noted the city granted the state a long-term lease for the land decades earlier, that the lease term is 99 years, and that prior discussions had envisioned city uses or allocated space for municipal functions that never materialized. Commissioners asked the manager to keep the commission informed if any opportunity arises.
The commission approved the resolution 4-0. The manager will return with findings and any recommended next steps if an opportunity appears.
