Lehighton will move forward with the demolition of an eyesore property despite an inquiry from a downtown business owner who expressed interest in the property.

On a unanimous measure, borough council on Monday awarded a proposal of $28,000 to Keystone Consulting to demolish the building at 135-139 N. First St.

That decision came after council heard from Glenn Claypoole, who owns Claypoole’s General Store at 101 South First St.

“I have interest in the building you want to (tear down),” Claypoole said.

Claypoole then asked council when it would have the total cost to demolish the building.

Borough solicitor Jim Nanovic said they won’t have an estimate until it goes out to bid, and said that the property has been condemned.

Claypoole said that he used to own the property.

Last month, council on a 6-0 vote agreed to move forward with the demolition. Borough secretary Brenda Kreitz said the borough could utilize $267,262 in Community Development Block Grant funds from 2020-2022.

In addition, Kreitz said the borough also has $37,886 in LSA funding for the project.

Council noted that the building has long been an issue.

Councilman Ryan Saunders said at that time “we need to absolutely do it.”