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Winfield council moves to declare former Citizens Bank building surplus, sets $5,000 reserve
Summary
The Winfield City Council agreed to declare the former Citizens Bank/museum building surplus and to advertise it for sale with a 90-day interior-cleanup requirement and a $5,000 reserve, with members indicating support by voice vote.
The Winfield City Council on March 17 moved to declare the former Citizens Bank building surplus and put it up for sale, with a condition that any buyer remove interior debris within 90 days and a council-set reserve of $5,000.
The council’s presiding official recommended advertising the property after noting the insurance settlement and that earlier outreach to Citizens Bank and Main Street drew no interest. Council members raised concerns about the building’s deteriorating roof and possible damage to neighboring structures, with one member asking, “Is there gonna be any kind of requirement that they maintain the facade?” and the presiding official responding that the building is not listed on the historical register and that prior owners had limited involvement.
Council debate centered on whether strict requirements — such as mandating a roof replacement before transfer — might deter bidders. The presiding official explained the intent of a 90-day cleanup window as a safety and nuisance measure: “I just feel like it’s something that we need to do.” Members discussed using an open bidding process with the city reserving the right to reject offers.
Procedurally, the council agreed to first declare the property surplus and then return at a subsequent meeting to advertise it and review bids. The meeting record shows members responding to a motion with a voice call of “all in favor,” and the presiding official then asking staff to schedule advertisement and set a timeline for responses.
The council also debated whether to set a minimum sale price; after discussion of figures in the $3,000–$4,000 range, the presiding official proposed a $5,000 reserve and asked for a motion to adopt it.
Next steps outlined by the council include formally declaring the property surplus at the present meeting, advertising the sale in accordance with city policy and the council’s direction, and returning to the council to review bids and take final action.
