Gambles building scheduled for demolition

By DAMIIAN LANG

news@yourdailyglobe.com

Bessemer — Members of the Bessemer Downtown Development Authority learned on June 12 that the demolition of what is known as “the old Gambles building” on Sophie Street has been scheduled for directly after July 4.

Demolition of the building has been made possible by funding from the State Land Grant Authority, with coordination by Gogebic County Treasurer Lisa Hewitt.

Members voted to purchase two signs to be placed on the building.

The signs read “Big Things Are Happening” and “Bessemer DDA Project in Progress.”

Although no decisions have yet been made, members have discussed a number of possibilities for the open space that will result once the Gambles building is removed. Those possibilities include a stage for entertainers, places for games or light sports, green space, flowers, and more.

In other news, DDA members also voted to pay $7,700 annually toward the salary of the next city manager, who has not yet been hired. Members stipulated that the agreement be renewed every two years and that they be present for the hiring process.

A formal agreement will be presented to the City Council at its next meeting. If approved, it will be returned to the DDA for a final OK.

DDA members also:

—Approved the sale of DDA-owned land (lot 51-00-104-200) for $641 to James Thull, who owns a neighboring apartment unit. The purchase agreement stipulates that Thull side the building within two years and install decorative landscaping.

—Approved a $200 allotment to winterize the irrigation system for the Ethnic Commons Park. Ben Tucker, director of the city’s Department of Public Works, recently fixed the irrigation system and recommended at the meeting the purchase of a rain sensor. The board will research the related cost.

—Voted to approve a cost not to exceed $1,300 for the planting of two trees downtown. One will be near the Bread of Life Bakery and Cafe, and the other will be in front of JDM Woodworks.

—Learned that seventh and eighth graders from A.D. Johnston Junior and Senior High School in Bessemer worked with area master gardeners to plant flowers downtown. A designated member of the city’s Department of Public Works staff now will maintain them.

Bessemer Downtown Development meetings are held the second Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m. in the council chambers of the Bessemer City Hall.

The next regular meeting is set for July 10.