The city of Benton is not interested in being in the real estate business. As a result, three lots the city owns on Huddleston Street near the Benton Civic Center are being considered for sale.
Representatives of the Civic Center and the Benton Park District told city officials at Monday’s city council meeting they are interested in the lots, although they do not have the financial means to pay thousands of dollars for the lots, which are located in the general vicinity of the two entities. One of the representatives even went as far to suggest the city sell the properties for $1.
“The best use of those lots is for the Park District or the Civic Center. We can’t afford $18,000 for lots … we would love to have them for $1,” said Dave Bower of the Park District. Bower added the Park District has considered expansion for several years, including the addition of a Splash Park, much like the aquatic facilities in Mt. Vernon and Carbondale.
“The good thing is there is some available lots. We’ve just got to figure out a long range plan to utilize those lots for the citizens of Benton,” said Rick Knight, chairman of the Civic Center Authority.
Knight said he has spoken to the mayor and others about building a pavilion on one of the lots. Knight suggested an 80 by 40 size building that would a permanent location for the popular Farmer’s Market. The space could also be used for wedding parties, rentals, etc., he added.
“I want something more than a tractor shed. What I would like to do is use lots one and two for parking and on the third center lot build a pavilion that faces Huddleston Street.”
Knight said he has checked into USDA funding for the project, although he can’t go any further until ownership of the lots has been established.
“I can’t apply for a loan or a grant. We’re not looking at taking over any loan debt and so we’re trying to find grant money as it becomes available. There are some monies that are available. We can do that project in stages, but the big question is the ownership of those lots. Every bit of that belongs to the citizens.”
Mayor Fred Kondritz told the representatives the lots will be sold.
“It’s pretty apparent you want the lots and the lots are going to be for sale. We hope you get the lots. Your plan is excellent,” he said.
