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Council votes 3-2 to cease active discussions about two privately considered buildings for city hall
Summary
After reviewing two privately proposed properties (the Robert E. Lee Hotel and the BB&T building), the council voted 3-2 to cease ongoing discussions about pursuing either building for city hall because both are under private consideration.
The Athens City Council voted 3-2 to stop active discussions about two previously considered city-hall relocation options: the Robert E. Lee Hotel (sometimes referenced as Open Door Cafe in public remarks) and the BB&T building on Washington Avenue.
City staff reported that both buildings are currently being examined by private entities and that the owner of the BB&T building was awaiting a contract with a private buyer. Given that status, a council member moved to "cease all discussions" regarding both properties; the motion passed by a 3-2 roll call vote (three in favor, two opposed).
Council and staff remarks noted that, because private parties were pursuing the properties, the city would need to look at other options for a new city hall. The city manager said alternative options would be evaluated and brought back to the council if appropriate.
Why it matters: The city has been considering multiple options for city-hall relocation or renovation, including adding on to the current building, purchasing the Robert E. Lee Hotel, or acquiring the BB&T building. With two of the options now effectively off the table while private buyers pursue them, the council must revisit other alternatives or identify new properties.
No formal purchase or acquisition action was taken at the meeting; the council27s action was procedural, ending active consideration of the two named properties.
Speakers referenced are council members and the city manager who reported the buildings27 status.
