City sets mid‑July deadline for downtown square property owners to present plan after months of delay

City administration said staff have been engaging daily with downtown property owners and that the owners must present a plan by mid‑July (staff suggested July 13 as the deadline) or the city will consider next steps to address the ongoing rubble lot and stalled activity on the square. Administration said it offered a mediator to help the owners but that the offer may no longer be acceptable to all parties; staff continue to explore outside resources to coordinate solutions.

The city emphasized the cost in staff time and the need to document long‑standing agreements that have historically been handled by handshake. Administration asked the board to provide any items they want addressed in upcoming meetings and said staff will seek written documentation clarifying ownership, insurance obligations and maintenance responsibilities for several shared facilities (for example the Lincoln County Library property and other joint facilities).

Next steps: property owners to submit a plan by mid‑July; staff to continue outreach and to prepare documented agreements regarding joint facilities and responsibilities.