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Commission authorizes up to $25,000 appraisal to vet donation of Wells Fargo building
Summary
County commissioners voted 4–0 to pay for an independent commercial appraisal, not to exceed $25,000, to evaluate a possible donation of the 30,000-square-foot Wells Fargo building and the costs to bring it to code and usable office space.
The Anaconda-Deer Lodge County Commission voted unanimously on Feb. 3 to authorize a commercial appraisal, capped at $25,000, to evaluate a potential donation of the Wells Fargo building to the county.
CEO Bill Everett told commissioners the appraisal must be independent and meet IRS expectations so the donor and the county have a reliable valuation. "We're looking at getting a nearly 30,000 square foot building for free, perhaps $25,000.00," Everett said, adding that the appraisal cost he proposed was the top end and that he expected the work might be completed for closer to $15,000.
Commissioners and staff discussed significant renovation costs if the county acquires the property. Everett reported an elevator alone could cost about $500,000 and that a conservative remodeling estimate ranged from roughly $1,000,000 to $1,500,000 to bring the building to operational standards. He and commissioners also listed potential grant sources and the county's recent success obtaining capital funding.
Supporters of pursuing the appraisal cited operational benefits, including expanded space for Public Health and the possibility of restoring some state services locally. "I think this is a huge opportunity," Chair Kevin Hart said, emphasizing the building’s central location and accessibility. Commissioner Ed Beaudette questioned whether the county should pay for an appraisal that could benefit a private donor’s tax position; Everett replied the appraisal must be commissioned by the county to be independent and compliant with federal guidance.
The motion to proceed with the appraisal passed 4–0. Next steps identified by county staff include selecting an appraiser, completing the appraisal, and returning to the commission with findings and cost estimates for renovation and grant strategies.
