Tempe approves purchase of 520 and 526 South Mill Avenue; city cites historic-preservation goals

The Tempe City Council authorized the city manager to execute a purchase-and-sale agreement to acquire two downtown properties at 520 and 526 South Mill Avenue, saying the acquisitions are intended to preserve historic buildings and support opportunities for local small businesses.

Finn Howe, a Tempe resident, asked whether the sites would continue to host music venues such as Dark Star after acquisition. "I love going to local shows here in Tempe and Phoenix," Howe said during public comment, and urged the city to preserve spaces for local musicians. City staff responded that the current leaseholder declined to renew with the current owner and that the city does not yet know what uses would occupy the buildings if the acquisition proceeds. The mayor said the city's goal would be to preserve history and to offer market-rate but affordable lease terms to attract local entrepreneurs.

Councilmember Chin moved to authorize the purchase; the motion was seconded by Councilmember Hodge and passed unanimously, 7–0. Officials noted one property (526 South Mill Avenue, described in the meeting as Tempe National Bank building) and a second building at 520 (Tempe Hardware) are owned by different parties; staff said leasing outcomes were not finalized but the city plans to continue a downtown mix of uses and to prioritize local small-business opportunities.