Old Cape Girardeau City Hall sold to Kellerman Foundation for Historic Preservation

Cape Girardeau City Council members approved the first, second and third readings of an ordinance authorizing Mayor Stacy Kinder to execute a special warranty deed to The Mary Ann and Bert J. Kellerman Foundation, for property at 401 Independence St., at a special meeting Monday, July 24.

After the property — which served as City Hall — was listed for $870,000 on Feb. 24, four parties made offers, said Jake Fish of Edge Realty, who represented the city as listing agent.

On May 1, City Council members unanimously accepted the offer from The Kellerman Foundation to purchase the property.

The Kellermans will pay the city $550,000 in the deal that closed Monday. The net proceeds from the sale of the old City Hall will be $451,458.

The Kellerman Foundation plans to use the building to display significant collections and provide space for research and historic preservation activities.

City manager Ken Haskin thanked Mary Ann Kellerman and her family for negotiating in good faith and for their patience during this period.

"She and her family have been with us from start to finish," Haskin said, "We feel like this is a good deal, not only for her but also for the city."

As a part of the agreement, the Kellerman Foundation will grant to the city permanent easements for utilities, storm sewers and stormwater detention on the property.