Goodview council orders commercial appraisal of city-owned property where The Bar operates

The Goodview City Council voted unanimously on April 7 to obtain a professional commercial appraisal of the city-owned land and building occupied by The Bar as council members discussed whether the city should continue to own and lease the property.

Mayor Ben Klinger introduced the item, saying he believes the city "should not be in the landlord business" and noting the city typically loses money under current lease language because of ownership responsibilities and upkeep costs. City Attorney Mike Flaherty advised the council that the first step in considering a sale is to obtain a confidential appraisal by a professional commercial appraiser: "the number one thing to do is to have a professional commercial appraiser appraise the property site even if you are just considering selling it," Flaherty said.

Jen Laturno, the current renter of the premises, said she believes The Bar reported more than $420,000 in gross gambling revenue in 2024 and emphasized the site’s revenue role for the Goodview Activity Group (GAG). City Administrator Dan Matejka told the council that GAG has donated nearly $874,000 to the city over the past 18 years, including $283,100 in the last two years.

Councilmember Charlie Andring moved to have an appraisal performed; Councilmember Cassandra Gilliam seconded the motion. The motion passed with all members voting aye.

Councilmembers discussed procedural options presented by the city attorney, including doing nothing, renegotiating lease terms to reflect current market realities, or pursuing a sale (which Flaherty said could be discussed in closed session if the council chose). The council took no final decision to sell; the appraisal is a fact-finding step that will inform any future options.

The council did not set a public deadline for the appraisal; no purchase offers or sale terms were discussed at the meeting.