Branson board approves sale of former school for housing project

The Branson Board of Aldermen yesterday approved the sale of a former high school for use as a housing project.

The unanimous approval from the board paves the way for a contract allowing the city to sell the nearly 2.6-acre property to Branson-based Lifestyle Contractors LLC for $50,000, according to a news release. The building reportedly has been vacant since 2008.

“While $50,000 may seem like a low number, that property is loaded with asbestos. The last estimate we received to remove it was $250,000,” Mayor Larry Milton said in the release. “It is currently an eyesore and a safety hazard. We have tried many times to try to find a developer for this piece of property.

"This board and I feel like this is the best decision for our city."

Lifestyle Contractors plans to build a multifamily, attainable housing development at the site, 300 S. 6th St. It could include up to 65 units.

"This will get rid of blight and bring in some much-needed family housing," Milton said in the release.