Council moves to solicit demolition bids for former JHS property amid litigation

The Jefferson City Council continued legal and property action on the former Jefferson High School site at its Aug. 7 meeting. City Attorney S. LaFleur-Sayler told the council it has initiated litigation and sent notices of default to the property owner; the council held two executive sessions to discuss the matter and then directed staff to pursue demolition options.

Council member J. Lokhorst moved — and J. Casper seconded — to involve Building Inspector Gary Roan, prepare a written scope of work that addresses footings, asbestos testing and removal, junk removal and rodent control, advertise for demolition bids and set a bid-opening date. The motion carried. Finance Officer Michaeleen Roark and Police Chief Dustin Sharkey were among staff directed to assist with procurement and site controls. The council emphasized that asbestos testing and abatement are a first priority before any contractor work begins.

The action follows the council's statement that default notices have been served and litigation is underway; no demolition contract was awarded at the meeting and the council did not announce a bid-opening date in the minutes beyond directing staff to advertise.