LAKEPORT — The Lakeport Planning Commission unanimously approved reviews Wednesday to build a bank north of Lakeport Furniture after crews demolish the building there.
The Savings Bank of Mendocino County plans to move from its building at 650 N. Main St. to a new building at 290 S. Main St.
“We haven”t had a commercial project for a while,” Commissioner Harold Taylor said. “This looks like a great project for Lakeport.”
Taylor asked that the city bid to at least a few local contractors because he said he thinks the town could use the business.
Commissioners asked about relocating the existing building rather than demolishing it.
Andrew Britton, city planning services manager, said a man who was interested in relocating the building found significant dry rot under the building and decided not to move the building.
Through permits, crews may be able to demolish the existing building after Monday, Britton said. The building last housed the AT&T store and historically it was originally part of the Prather Lumber Yard.
Commissioner Ross Kauper said in speaking with community members, 3-1 liked the project.
“I think it will go well with the Soper-Reese Theatre,” Kauper said.
Commissioner Marc Spillman had questions about a future entrance design to downtown Lakeport in the center turning lane on South Main Street at Martin Street. He asked if the design planned in the redevelopment project would block access to the bank.
Britton said the design will not block access to the bank and Rau and Associates is engineering both projects, improving the cohesion.
Contact Katy Sweeny at kdsweeny@gmail.com or call her directly at 263-5636, ext. 37.
