Port Clinton puts $775,000 offer on downtown building; special meeting set to weigh financing

Port Clinton Mayor Snider said the city has placed an offer of $775,000 on a downtown building and is preparing to relocate City Hall staff and the police department there.

The move prompted the city auditor to request a Special Council meeting at 6 p.m. on June 17 to review short‑term financing options and a proposed ordinance that will state a maximum ('not to exceed') funding amount for the purchase and renovation. Auditor Gabe Below told council officials they are exploring 12‑month financing scenarios intended to keep borrowing costs low and requested that council consider passing the ordinance on second reading at the July 17 meeting so the city can meet the anticipated closing schedule.

Mayor Snider said an architect is working on an interior layout and confirmed the city’s offer includes a closing date on or before July 28, 2025. "The city put an offer of $775,000 for the downtown building," he said. Snider also told the meeting there would be no additional fees charged to residents because of the location change.

According to Auditor Below, projected downtown acquisition costs will be paid from the general fund; he emphasized the goal of minimizing financing costs while meeting the seller’s timeline. The auditor also asked council members to monitor email for materials related to the proposed ordinance and any follow‑up questions from staff.

Council President Lisa Sarty set a Special Council meeting for June 17 to give council time to review financing options and the ordinance language. No vote on the purchase or financing was recorded at the June 10 meeting; the item remains pending pending review at the special meeting and subsequent readings of the ordinance.