Spencer, IA (Northwestiowanow.com) — The contractor who purchased the old Tagney Hotel for one dollar after the flood says making the structure will be a community effort.

Andrew Maurer took ownership of the building from Grand Avenue Community Outreach and says renovation will be handled by a non-profit organization.

Maurer says the mess from the flood has been cleaned up, there’s anti-freeze in the pipes, and gas heat to the main level that’s being piped into the basement.

An antiquated elevator has been one hindrance to past dreams to created apartments in the Tagney. Maurer says a new elevator will either be installed in the current shaft, or on the Northwest corner.