The removal of what’s left of the former City Tavern Building can finally proceed, following a lengthy legal battle. Town Attorney Jim Clevenger shared the Indiana Court of Appeals’ finding during Tuesday’s town council meeting.
“A 24-page public opinion on our case, ‘Culver versus The 27 Group and Mr. Scotty VanHawk,’ and the Court of Appeals affirmed the trial court order for demolition!” Clevenger announced.
Much of the building at 415 Lakeshore Drive was destroyed in a fire last month, as the demolition order was being appealed. The town council awarded a demolition bid to Zehner Excavating earlier this month at a cost of $50,000.
But when it came to asbestos remediation, town officials got another proposal after they had some concerns with the first environmental firm, according to Town Manager Jonathan Leist. On Tuesday, council members approved his recommendation to hire Clean Air Environmental. He added that Clean Air’s cost is considerably lower than the first company’s.
Work to clear the site is expected to begin Monday, according to Clerk-Treasurer Karen Heim. She reminded council members that a public hearing for an additional appropriation has been scheduled for their December 10 meeting, since there isn’t enough money in the budget to cover the entire cost. Town officials are asking for the council’s permission to spend another $30,000.
