by Hannah Caudell
White County News
The city of Cleveland has some new real estate to potentially advance city operations.
The council members voted unanimously to approve the purchase of the old tax commissioner’s building at 113 North Brooks St. for $370,000.
Cleveland Mayor Josh Turner addressed the participating citizens with an explanation about why the building could prove beneficial to future city operations.
“Sometime ago, the city of Cleveland approached the county about the possibility of acquiring this property, which will allow us to serve our mutual constituents in the City of Cleveland and White County further,” Turner said. “As of now, we don’t have any definite plans for it, but in the long-term it could be some sort of parking solution. In the interim, it may serve other purposes, as well.”
The limited warranty deed will be transferred from White County’s possession to the city.
Earlier Monday evening, the White County Board of Commissioners unanimously voted to approve the intergovernmental agreement. A signed copy of the agreement was provided to city council members.
The old tax commissioner’s office has been in the county’s possession since 1858, according to City Attorney Keith Whitaker. Turner added that the building has served many different functions since then, including a public health department, a board of education office, a tax commissioner’s office and a board of commissioner’s office.
“It’s served the community well since that time and we’ll make sure to be good stewards of it and make sure that it serves the citizens of this community for a long time in the future,” Turner continued.
Council member Jeremy McClure made the motion that the council enter into the intergovernmental agreement with the board of commissioners for the property. C.J. McDonald seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
The city council hopes to provide both signed agreements and a check for $370,000 this week to acquire the building.
Eric Tiongson contributed to this report.