The Mandan City Commission denied a proposal from Rev. Doug and Joni Wyatt to purchase the former library building to turn it into their home. At Mandan's Nov. 18 meeting, the commission asked the Wyatts to return to the table with a monetary offer. It was provided Tuesday, in the form of a $20,000 bid.

However, the commission decided the building wouldn't be best utilized as a residence. Instead, they plan on working with Lewis and Clark Community Works, a non-profit organization. Community Works made a $1 offer for the building.

Sherri Arenz, Housing Program Director for Community Works, asked the commission provide an answer of 'yea' or 'nay' soon. She hopes her organization could relocate its offices, which provide homeownership programs. In addition, the state's first Homeownership Center would be housed in the former library.

Community Works also requested a two-year option to purchase. During that time, Arenz would work to secure financing for rehabilitation and determine a usage plan for the building.

Mandan City Administrator Jim Neubauer also told the commission that Mandan's newly formed Historical Society is interested in the building. He suggested the commission hold on to Community Works' offer and deal with any others as they come.

Mandan Commissioner Stan Scott said Community Works would fit well in the city's downtown redevelopment plan. Mayor Ken LaMont and Commissioner Dan Ulmer agreed the building will be best suited as a professional entity than a residence, and better serve the community by providing jobs.

Scott said to Arenz, "I look forward to the day you're there."

(Reach reporter Angie Buckley at 250-8255 or angiebuckley@ndonline.com.)