Redevelopment commission votes to pursue repair of downtown mural, may consider purchase

The Frankfort Redevelopment Commission voted to pursue immediate repairs to the mural on the wall at 250 North Main and to consider buying the building if the second appraisal supports acquisition. Committee member (speaker 1) moved to pursue repairs now and to revisit purchase after appraisal results; the motion passed on a voice vote.

Commission members said the mural is deteriorating from water intrusion and that delaying work through winter could increase restoration costs. A staff member (speaker 6) urged a cautious approach to liability: "If you spend $2,000 to $3,000 for Phase I, it saves you potentially hundreds of thousands of dollars of liability," the staff member said, recommending environmental testing as part of due diligence. Members also discussed lease status for a current tenant and whether to set lease terms that include payment in lieu of taxes if the commission acquires the property.

Chair (speaker 2) noted the commission will seek grants through Main Street, the Lafayette Art Guild and the Community Foundation to fund mural work where possible, and asked counsel and staff to pursue written permissions or waivers that would allow repair work if the owner will not cooperate. The commission authorized staff to begin the repair process and to bring finalized appraisal information and recommended next steps to the next meeting.