Board of Works approvesease for Heartland Artists at Historic Fire Station

City Attorney Jeff Houin presented a lease proposal for the historic fire station to the Board of Public Works and Safety this week. The agreement is between the City of Plymouth and the Heartland Artist Center.

Discussions regarding a temporary lease began before last week's fire and were driven by a major renovation project Heartland is undertaking this spring. Houin noted that Mayor Listenberger has a committee that has been meeting for over a year to determine the potential future use and restoration of the old firehouse, focusing primarily on the exterior.

Heartland representatives have examined the firehouse interior and believe it will suit their needs during their 16- to 18-month renovation project.

Building Commissioner Dennis Manuwal has inspected the structure and identified a few items that must be repaired before occupancy is permitted. Houin stated that the city is actively addressing these repairs. While none of the issues are significant individually, they represent a collection of concerns that the city wants to ensure are resolved.

The lease stipulates that Heartland Art Center will be responsible for all expenses, including utility bills, maintenance costs, and interior repairs.  The prior lease arrangement at the location, the city paid expenses while the tenant paid rent, which left the city at a financial disadvantage.

The lease is set to begin on April 1. However, if repairs are completed and occupancy is approved earlier, Heartland will be permitted to move in sooner.

Houin added that following Heartland’s renovation project, there may be continued interest in utilizing the Old Firehouse, though that determination will be made in a year or so.

Board of Public Works and Safety member Don Ecker motioned to approve the lease proposal, and his motion was seconded by Shiloh Milner. The Board unanimously approved the agreement.