Council votes to accept bid on safety building

During a special session held Thursday evening, the Hillsboro City Council voted 6-0 to approve a bid submitted to purchase the former city safety building on North High Street. 

On Sept. 17, Drew Hastings, a Highland County resident who owns property in the uptown area, submitted the only bid for the former fire station, in the amount of $74,000. As required, Hastings had submitted a check for 10 percent of the purchase price with the bid. 

The city had to receive two-thirds of the building's $110,000 estimated value. 

Hillsboro Safety and Service Director Ralph Holt said that the bid is more than the required amount, making it "an acceptable bid."

Hillsboro Mayor Dick Zink said that Hastings has purchased property in the area before, including the former Fifth Third Bank Building and the Bell's Opera House, and "We've seen what he has done with them has been good for the community and good for Hillsboro. I'm satisfied he will continue this work in the city."

Council member Mary Brown Turner said she believed Hastings has been "responsible" in preserving historic uptown structures.

"Mr. Hastings has made an investment in the community, and I appreciate it, as I'm sure do all those who own homes and businesses in the uptown area," said Council president Lee Koogler.

Council member and finance committee chairperson Peter Pence said that with the current difficult financial situation the city is in, "The $74,000 will help the city's bottom line. We know what the building looks like inside. It needs work. It was the only bid, and I appreciate someone wanting to take on a project like that."

Pence made a motion to accept the bid, which was seconded by council member Brian Waller. 

The motion was passed 6-0. 

Council member Rod Daniels was not in attendance, and Koogler entertained a motion to excuse the absence. Council member Bill Alexander made a motion to excuse, which was seconded by Turner. Alexander and council member Bonnie Parr voted to excuse the absence, and voting against the motion were Turner, Pence, Waller and Dave Shoemaker.

Following the meeting, Hastings spoke with some council members and city officials, saying, "I appreciate your kind words and support. I am going to take my time with this. I have my hands full right now."