Council discusses asbestos survey, timing and funding for Centennial building

Le Mars city staff told the council on Jan. 21 that a new asbestos survey will be required before abatement or demolition of the Centennial building at 1140 Third Avenue Southeast, and that timing and updated cost estimates are needed before committing funding.

Staff reported that a prior survey dated May 2012 was located by the city's contracted realtor (Sisman Real Estate) and that some textured ceiling material containing asbestos was removed from the third and fourth floors as part of the earlier transaction. However, staff said the Iowa Department of Natural Resources informed them that asbestos surveys are valid for one year, so a new survey would be necessary if abatement or demolition is undertaken now.

Council discussion focused on funding and timing. Administration noted the property lies in the Le Mars Highway 75 Bypass urban renewal area and therefore could be eligible for tax‑increment financing (TIF) reimbursement if costs are certified by Dec. 1, 2026. Staff also said administration will pursue an EPA grant if appropriate, but that grant funds would not be available until November 2025 if awarded. An abatement cost estimate from Alloy Specialty dated to the 2012 report listed a high end of about $283,000 for removing asbestos identified then; staff said some of the work described in the 2012 estimate has already been completed and that 2012 pricing is likely outdated.

Councilmembers asked for more current ballpark estimates on demolition and abatement costs before committing to a timeline; staff said they would seek updated demolition estimates and noted abatement quotes require hiring licensed abatement contractors. The council did not take formal action on the asbestos survey item at this meeting.