Chanute city commissioners still landed in a stalemate over the sale of an industrial building, despite having two offers at Tuesday evening’s meeting.
The commission voted 2-2 on a proposal to sell a building at 615 W. Cherry Street that has been empty since Orizon Aerostructures took over for Spirit AeroSystems and moved operations to Orizon’s facility. Commissioner Tim Fairchild abstained from the vote.
Commissioners now have an appraisal on the building that puts its value at $451,000, and they have two offers to purchase.
One offer, from Jim Caldwell of Bridgewood Custom Cabinets, was for $500,000 up front, but incentives for job creation and investment matches would reduce the price. After discussing the item on the agenda, the commission voted to table it to hear the second offer.
The second offer from Jeff Ports of United Country Real Estate Professionals was for $291,000 in cash without incentives.
Lamar Eby, representing the purchasers, said the company would bring 25 to 45 jobs to Chanute in 36 months. They did not release the name of the company who had signed a letter of intent to lease the building, hoping to take possession by January.
City Manager Jeff Cantrell said a cash sale would not require a review by the economic feasibility committee.
(Read more: The Chanute Tribune)