Work to tear down the Knights Inn, 1641 S. Main Street at 17th and Main, is getting started. The motel took heavy damage in the April 13 tornado.

Property Improvement Partner Keith Hodges told the City Commission on September 9 that an asbestos removal contractor has been chosen and should start this week. Demolition follows once that work is done and utilities are cut off. A demolition company is lined up, and Hodges expects that stage to take about three weeks. Every building and parking lot will be removed. The cleared lot will go on the market, and the owners report several inquiries.

Hodges also said the owner of 1017 S. Ash Street missed a September 4 deadline to start repairs. If work doesn't begin within 30 days, staff will bring options to the commission.

For details, see KOFO's report on the demolition and the September 9 commission minutes.