We've voted as a congregation to purchase the building at 355 E. Lorain St., so long as the environmental issues are resolved. Clearly, we're not going to be buying this building until we are assured we will be permitted to occupy it and move in!
Over the weekend of January 21, 2012, we met with a consultant from the UUA, who basically told us we appeared to have sufficient energy and committment to this project that he saw few obstacles to our getting it done. Read his report, or listen to his summary to the congregation on January, 21.
Columbia Gas has been on the property, replacing leaky gas lines that we hope were the cause of some complaints in the neighborhood. They will be back in June to repave the asphalt in the parking lot and restore the grounds that have been disturbed.
Our most recent purchase offer was accepted, including the clause where we wanted the current owner to close the well and remove the underground fuel tank before we transfer ownership of the building. And it has been done! The well was closed, and the underground tank turns out to have been part of the well apparatus, so that was taken care of in the same operation.
We're working with several banks for a mortgage, and are awaiting word of final approval. Banks are a bit skittish with non-profit organizations lately, and we don't have the income that would make everyone happy, so we've been told "no" by some, even though the mortgage payment would be about half what we're paying in monthly rent now. But we have nearly enough cash on hand right now to buy the building! The seller wants to close by the end of April, and we may be able to be in as early as July 1. First up will be the alterations we need to be permitted to hold meetings in the space, mostly smoke alarms, panic bars, exit signs and the like. So exciting!
