Lansford Borough officials have decided to demolish the borough's long-abandoned Elks' club.

But before they can proceed, they have to acquire the dilapidated property and come up with the money to demolish it.Council President Martin Ditsky announced the borough's plan to demolish the three-story building at a council meeting last week. It sits in the heart of the borough's Ridge Street business district.The strip was once a bustling commercial center, but over the years suffered from a lack of investment. However there is new optimism about revitalizing the downtown, officials said."We are trying to beautify the downtown," Ditsky said. "(The building) has become an eyesore."Borough officials are currently working on grant money to fund the demolition. They must also seek approval from a state agency because the building is located in the Lansford Historic District.Ditsky said that in its current condition, the building is beyond repair.The building's roof has gaping holes, and inside floors of the building are collapsing in many places."I wouldn't want to live there," he said. "I think the only thing salvageable is the refrigerator on the second floor."The building is currently on the county's repository list, Ditsky said. That means that it did not sell when put up for tax sale. The initial tax sale came about because the previous owner ran up delinquent tax bills.The Elks Club operated in the borough up until the early '80s. Residents recalled memories of parties and other gatherings at the club before it closed its doors.Ditsky said that anyone who has concerns about the demolition can contact the borough office.