NEW ULM — Brown County Commissioners unanimously approved authorizing the auditor-treasurer to begin the demolition process for the George’s Ballroom property Tuesday.

Action came on a motion by Commissioner Tony Berg, seconded by Commissioner Dean Simonsen.

The county auditor may take a variety of actions, including demolition, pertaining to any buildings located on a tax-forfeited land (TFL) parcel approved by the county board, according to state law.

The county may contract for demolition of any buildings commissioners determine are reducing the taxable value of property due to age, dilapidated condition or excessive size. Demolition may also be done to improve the chances of selling tax-forfeited land.

George’s Ballroom was forfeited to the State of Minnesota in 2002. It was purchased at 2003 TFL sale and forfeited again in July 2019 for non-payment of taxes.

According to assessor’s records, the building value has been reduced to $22,700. The value of the property’s six lots is estimated at $109,300.

Asbestos removal costs are estimated at more than $350,000. Demolition costs are estimated at $500,000.

Since the property is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, a Phase 1 environmental study would be required.

“There are various hoops we have to jump through,” said Brown County Auditor-Treasurer Jean Prochniak.

“I heard there are people interested in it, if it’s shovel ready. There is a need for market-rate housing. It won’t get any cheaper to demolish it,” said Brown County Commissioner Dave Borchert.

“I want to see it move,” said Commissioner Tony Berg.

Commissioners also unanimously approved:

• The 3 Counties for Kids Collaborative of Watonwan, Sibley and Brown Counties, on a motion by Simonsen, seconded by Berg.

The group’s mission is to work together to help provide community-based behavioral health services for children and their families through prevention, early intervention, education and shared services.

• Received a 2020 Census update from Brown County Auditor-Treasurer Jean Prochniak, on a motion by Berg, seconded by Commissioner Scott Windschitl.

“It’s very important we get everyone counted,” said Windschitl.

Prochniak said the Census is all going to be done by phone and online.

“The scary part to me is Brown County’s aging population,” Prochniak said.

She added that CAST (Community and Seniors Together) will be available as best as it can, to help people with the Census.

Fritz Busch can be emailed at fbusch@nujournal.com.