HANCOCK - The Town Council discussed taking control of the former G.C. Murphy building Wednesday, citing its poor condition and possible benefit to the town under different ownership.
Mayor Dan Murphy said real estate companies have attempted to donate the building to Hancock because of the council's complaints that its run-down condition was creating a haven for "homeless and transient people."
The former department store, abandoned since Feb. 18, 1997, has been the target of complaints from local and county officials as well as offers from the town to purchase the property.
The property, at 42-50 W. Main St., later faced possible condemnation, Murphy said.
"I personally would think we would welcome the idea of selling it to someone who has plans to add to Main Street," Murphy said. "We're not trying to make a heap on it, but we want to turn it into something positive."