The former Pennsylvania Hotel in downtown Garnett may be heading for the wrecking ball. The historic but dilapidated building on the south side on the Garnett square was condemned several years ago by the city and has been an ongoing topic for City Management and City Commissioners. The building was declared by the fire department as “no enter” meaning it’s not safe for firemen to enter in the event it catches fire. At last week’s City Commission meeting, Garnett City Manager Chris Wiener told commissioners that the building failed to sell at a recent tax auction and that means the building is still on the county tax rolls with a $20,000 lien against it. He says a salvage purchase at the county tax sale was likely the only way the property would be purchased because of the vast repairs needed to make it usable again. It will cost $10,000 to tear down the building, paid by the city and added to the lien against it. Bids on demolition will come soon. The historic structure last housed Denise’s Cafe until it closed in 2011. The history of the 140-year-old building is extensive.
