It's been a long time sight in Yorkton and it's also been a huge point of contention, but after Monday's decision things may soon change.
Following through on a recommendation made by administration Yorkton City Council voted in favor of tendering the demolition of all of the buildings situated at 120 Livingstone Street - with the exception of the old mill.
After a recent inspection of the site by administrative staff from the Department of Tourism, Parks, Culture & Sport along with the manager of building services and the Deputy Fire Chief it was determined deterioration is significant.
"This deterioration represents major safety concerns and serious consideration of the fact that the building is past the point of being economically feasible to repair," said Bonnie Schenher, the city's clerk to council. Close inspection has revealed water damage, mold, damaged and rotting floors as well as bird inhabitation.
"Due to these concerns, we have since secured the building to prevent access... We anticipate that significant structural repair would be required to make the building suitable for admission of the general public."
In May of this year the City of Yorkton took title to the property and as the owner, it now has the right to decide what to do with the buildings on the property adds Schenher who also said once the property is cleaned up, it could then be offered for sale.
"The likelihood of someone purchasing the site and retrofitting the mill building would be greater once the rest of the site is cleaned up." The possibility of moving the mill to the Western Development Museum will also be explored.
Also planned is a public hearing on June 28 where interested parties will have the opportunity to address council with concerns.
