The city of Windsor is a step closer to putting a building in the downtown core up for sale.
The city took ownership of the former Bentley's Roadhouse on Ouellette Ave. near Elliott St. in February (2018) after the owner failed to pay taxes.
On Tuesday, the city's economic standing committee approved a zoning change allowing the site to fall under a mixed-use designation.
Back in 2010, the building's owner had plans to convert the bar into 16 one bedroom loft style apartments but the development fell through.
Councillor Bill Marra says the designation change was necessary.
"Now we have a property that we own, that will promote commercial, retail at the ground level which is consistent with the rest of the area," says Marra.
The front of the former Bentley's Roadhouse on Ouellette Ave, October 9, 2018 (Photo by AM800's Rob Hindi)
Marra adds the building is in an ideal location for residential development as well as commercial on the main level.
"There will probably will be a marketing opportunity now for the city to make this property available and see it for redevelopment," says Marra. "Looking at the streetscape, looking at what's been happening along Pelissier and going into the downtown area. I'm optimistic that this will get some attention."
In 2010, the renovation project was expected to cost $1.3 million.
The matter now heads to city council for final approval.