The Ketchum city council has taken the first step towards acquiring a new city hall and police station. The desired building is on the corner of 2nd Avenue and 5th Street.
The Ketchum city council will spend $25,000 for a short-term option to buy the 11,000 square-foot structure, which was built in 1996.
The Mountain Express reports it would cost the city $3.1 million if the deal is nailed down by the end of September. The three-story building would house the city's administrative offices as well as the Ketchum Police Department.
Two years ago Ketchum voters turned down a $23 million bond measure for a new city hall, police station and fire station.
Ideas for financing the building as well as proposals for alternative projects will be presented at a February 28 open house.
Mayor Neil Bradshaw says the city should only move forward on the proposal if it does not increase taxes. He says the sale of the current city building on East Avenue should net between $2 and $3 million.
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