Le Mars City Council Faces Critical Asbestos Decision Ahead of Centennial Building Demolition

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News Summary

Le Mars City Council Faces Critical Asbestos Decision Ahead of Centennial Building Demolition

At a recent meeting on January 21, 2025, the Le Mars City Council convened to confront a subject that has long lingered over the community—the future of the city-owned Centiennial Building. This site, once a men’s dormitory for Westmar College, has transformed over the years into a structure intertwined with the history of Le Mars, but now faces the possibility of demolition.

The Legacy of the Centennial Building

Opened in 1968 and renamed in 1969 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Le Mars, the Centennial Building has served various purposes since the closure of Westmar College in November 1997. The city, having purchased the college in 1996, used the current building primarily to house construction workers. Despite previous intentions to demolish the structure as early as 2011, plans were put on hold when the building was sold in 2012—only to be repurchased last year.

The Asbestos Dilemma

Prior to any demolition, the city acknowledges a pressing need for the removal of asbestos, a hazardous material present in older buildings. An asbestos study scheduled for the building—conducted by the Eocene Environmental Group based in West Des Moines—was set to cost the city $23,000 but has been postponed during discussions. The most recent asbestos survey was performed in May 2012, which led to the removal of asbestos texture from the ceiling of the third and fourth floors. Given the time elapsed since the last assessment, council members concurred on the necessity of a fresh survey, stressing the importance of community safety.

The Health Risks of Asbestos

Asbestos poses significant health risks, including serious conditions such as asbestosis and mesothelioma. These risks necessitate that any removal operations must be conducted by certified professionals. There seems to be a growing consensus among council members about the urgency of addressing this issue, as Councilman Clark Goodchild expressed a willingness to further evaluate the costs associated with both the asbestos study and the demolition itself.

Future Actions and Financial Considerations

Diving deeper into logistical concerns, City Administrator Jason Vacura pointed out that while the paperwork for the asbestos study could proceed ahead of demolition, an evacuation report must be presented to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) at least ten days before any demolition begins. With the high-end estimate for previous asbestos removal costs towering at $283,000, this raises substantial budgetary questions for the city, especially with the understanding that these figures have likely increased given the passage of time.

Funding Possibilities

Currently, funding from the Iowa DNR is unavailable for this crucial project, intensifying the urgency for the council to identify potential financial sources. The possibility of applying for federal Environmental Protection Agency grants this November is a proactive step being considered, while financial plans through Tax Increment Financing (TIF) may also come into play, should the demolition plans move forward. The council must finalize and certify costs related to the project by December 1, 2026, leaving a clear timeline for planning.

Next Steps in the Council Meeting

The conversation is poised to continue during the council’s next meeting on February 4, 2025. As the city weighs its options, the fate of the Centennial Building hangs in the balance, emblematic of broader health and safety considerations that resonate throughout Le Mars. Residents and stakeholders alike are watching closely, eager to see how this issue unfolds and to what lengths the city council will go to safeguard community well-being.