The DeKalb County Commission decided against purchasing land for the Austin Bottom Fire Hall Monday night as the price doubled and acreage shrank.
Mayor Matt Adcock said the property was priced around $33,000 for two acres last month. Now, the property owners are asking ask $60,000 for 0.7 acres. e from the original promise of two acres.
“I think most of us, now that the acreage got lessened, even the first offer we’d be re-missed to follow through on,” Commissioner Jack Barton said. “We did vote, but we voted based on acreage that wasn’t accurate.”
Barton said the current acreage is not worth the previous price, as the Commission would not receive a full acre.
“I didn’t see any of that language that it’s, you know, as far as transfers or assigns, or whatever,” Barton said. “I’m fine with the lease, as long as it’s enforceable with new owners, cause they seem to be intent on selling it if we’re not wanting to buy it.”
Commissioner Tom Chandler said he agreed leasing was the safer option until the owners can bring the price down to a reasonable figure.
Mathias Anderson said the county needs a fire station to improve the county ISO rating.Chandler said the commission should keep an open line of communication with the property owner, as communication issues or mistakes could have landed both sellers in this situation. Chandler said he is hopeful the Commission can work something out with the sellers and buy the land at a more reasonable price.