SIDNEY -- The future of the Sidney Elks Lodge was discussed at the city council meeting Tuesday.

The Sidney City Council agenda included "possible purchase of the Elks Lodge building located at 1040 Jackson Street." If the City purchases the building, a lease agreement will be written for the Elks Lodge to continue using the building.

The details on the sales agreement and then the lease agreement have yet to be approved.

In his presentation to the city council, City Manager David Scott explained that revitalizing the building would be an asset to the community and to the Elks. Funding for that effort has begun, but the costs are projected much higher than the grants awarded.

The City of Sidney was awarded a $415,000 Community Development Block Grant with a $125,000 match in April 2020 to revitalize, restore and renovate the Elks Lodge. The contractor is Steele Construction. 

The renovation effort began as COVID impacted business and supply chains, and several required additions including ADA requirements. As of February 14, cost estimates to renovate and bring the building up to standards is at about $2.2 million.

The building was appraised by Gary Brandt, Nebraska Certified General Appraiser, at $174,000 on Jan 25, 2023.

In Tuesday's city council meeting, the council met in executive session. Returning to public session, the council approved moving forward with a sales agreement. City Attorney J. Leef said as long as the City has a sales agreement, it can proceed with a lease agreement.

Anita Pennel, a 14-year member of the Sidney Elks Lodge, said the membership values the building for the Elks and for the community.

"If anything happens to the building, we lose our charter," she said at the council meeting.

Sidney Mayor Brad Sherman said the City wants to preserve the building as well.

"I think the most important thing you hit on is this is for Sidney," Sherman said. 

The Sidney Elks are expected to hold a membership meeting Monday, February 20.