Seaford council approves funding plan to demolish long‑vacant Seaford Inn

The Seaford Mayor and City Council approved a plan Oct. 28 to fund demolition of the condemned Seaford Inn at 24058 Sussex Highway using the city's hotel/motel tax reserve.

City building official Mike Bailey and city staff presented a timeline showing the hotel was closed in 2020, suffered severe water damage and repeated break‑ins, was condemned in April and issued a demolition order in August. Staff displayed photos showing water‑damaged exterior walls, rusted metal studs and a failing pool area.

Bailey gave an estimated cost of about $450,000 to demolish the structure and fill the pool; Finance Director June Merritt advised the hotel/motel tax reserve balance as of Oct. 27 was $657,000. City Manager Anderson said staff would prepare a bid package and advertise for demolition contractors with the expectation of returning to council in 2026 with firm bids and a recommended contract.

Council members said the building had become an eyesore after repeated failed renovation attempts and lengthy vacancy. Councilman Mike Bradley and others said property owners had been given opportunities over multiple years and the city needed to act.

Councilwoman Stephanie Grasset moved to approve the funding plan as an unbudgeted expenditure; Councilman Mike Bradley seconded. The motion passed unanimously.

City staff said the demolition contract would include removal of the building and filling of the pool with fill material (leaving the concrete slab in place to limit erosion and maintenance) and that the cost would be a lien on the property to be recovered from the owner or a future purchaser. Staff cautioned that if the council awards a contract the city becomes liable under that contract, so the council can rescind prior to award while potential buyers still have time to present redevelopment plans.