Oakland aldermen approve offer to buy commercial building after 30‑day due diligence period, despite cost concerns

The Oakland Board of Aldermen voted 3–2 to authorize an offer to buy a commercial property from VCS Investments LLC after a lengthy discussion about renovation costs, asbestos risks and parking.

Attorney Minor, representing the town on the purchase document, told the board that the seller would not accept the 90‑day due‑diligence period the board had authorized in March and was offering a 30‑day inspection period with an option for a 15‑day extension. Minor said approving the contract would make a formal offer and start the 30‑day window for inspections and other due diligence. "If you voted tonight... you would be voting to make an offer consistent with the terms of this agreement," Minor told the board.

Town Manager Harvey Ellis told aldermen the 30‑day inspection window…