Council adopts RFQ to demolish three downtown buildings after storm exposes structural damage
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Summary
Mount Vernon council adopted Resolution 2026‑35 to issue an RFQ and select firms to demolish three properties behind 40 Public Square, citing public‑safety concerns after recent windstorm damage and plans to salvage historic elements for commemoration.
Mount Vernon City Council on April 15 adopted Resolution 2026‑35 authorizing the safety/service director to release a request for qualifications to identify contractors to demolish three adjacent downtown buildings behind 40 Public Square.
The safety/service director told council that a recent windstorm exposed significant structural deterioration — including damage to the Curtis Building — and that the three buildings lean on each other, creating an ongoing public‑safety risk. "It has become a public safety emergency, and we need to secure a contractor to not only eliminate the public safety risk, but also to kinda secure that whole area," the safety/service director said.
Staff described prior city ownership of the properties (purchased in 2012 with intent to demolish), the technical challenges of partial demolition where adjacent structures are interdependent, and the need to salvage historic elements. Council and staff said they have worked with masonry contractors to remove and retain keystones and other historically significant pieces and plan to consult the Historic Review Commission, Kenyon College and local historic groups on commemoration.
The resolution was moved, seconded and adopted after roll call. Councilmembers discussed post‑demolition options including a pocket park or decorative pillars that would incorporate salvaged keystones and allow future flexibility for court facility expansion and secured detainee transfer access.
Next steps: staff will advertise for qualifications, select a qualified firm or firms, and return to council with contract recommendations and any required demolition permitting or historic‑review steps.
