Some supporters of preservation scrambled in the hour leading up to demolition, seeking pledges to put toward a final attempt to hold off on demolition.
Mayor Aaron Montz and Councilman Rich Cline had discussion with Commissioner Ben Nutter through the weekend concerning a possible partnership between the city of Tiffin and the county to provide some space for Tiffin Municipal Court within the renovated 1884 courthouse or the courthouse annex. Montz said the city needs to address issues with the municipal court, and while the former Salvation Army building is owned by the city, a $3 million renovation cost could be a deterrent.
Supporters hoped to find private funding to offset money the city could put towards the courthouse, hoping to make up the $5 million needed for renovation without the use of a loan from U.S. Department of Agriculture. Montz said due to lack of time, the amount necessary to halt demolition was not determined and the effort was unsuccessful.
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PHOTO BY DON GROFF
People line the sidewalks Monday in downtown Tiffin to witness the beginning of demolition of the 1884 courthouse.
Montz said he and Cline asked that the project be put on hold for three weeks, but commissioners were unable to grant the request due to a signed contract with B&B Wrecking and Excavating Inc.
Montz, who said he was in favor of saving the building, said he hopes to work with commissioners as they plan on a new building project, which could be financially beneficial for both parties.
