Rochester, MN (KROC AM News) -  It looks like it’s back to square one concerning the future of Rochester’s former armory.

 

The city-owned downtown building is currently occupied by the community senior center, which is expected to relocate to its new site later this year.

The City Council sought proposals for the future use of the building and received just two responses by its deadline earlier this year. A third one recently surfaced.

The Council Monday discussed the situation and decided it will vote on a recommendation to reject the proposals and market the property. If no sellers are found, the council may once again seek proposals. A formal vote may come at the council’s next meeting.

The senior center is planning to leave the armory next month - even though its new site won’t be ready as expected. The new center was scheduled to open October 1st but it’s been delayed at least a month. According to the organization’s website, the humid summer led to problems with the flooring of the new building.

The council Monday also spent more time discussing the city’s need to maintain its streets.  

The council was told at an earlier meeting it needs to consider raising taxes or find other ways to increase the amount of money that is spent on road reconstruction and maintenance. The council was told property taxes don’t even cover current expenses.  

The council could not reach consensus on a solution at Monday’s meeting but directed City Administrator Steve Kvenvold to include a property tax increase for street expenses when he submits a proposed 2017 budget next month. The council will likely discuss a long-range plan at another meeting.

 

 

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