RALEIGH COUNTY -
Mayor Emmett Pugh tells 59 News one building that burned down is owned by a local attorney, and the other building is owned by the city. He said with two different owners poses a challenge for what to do with it as a whole in the future.
"I'm looking at the first quarter of this year to determine what route we are going to go, whether to purchase the property from Mr. Mize, or he could very well if he wanted to could very well approach us, and maybe buy our piece." said the Mayor.
Directly across the street from the fire is local eatery Mama Ann's. The owner, a native of Beckley, told us what she'd like to be done.
"What I'd like to see is a new building put there, something to replace it. Currently it's an eyesore for our town, and with the new construction along Neville Street, that is something that needs to be looked at further," said 'Mama Anne's owner Anne Stover.
59 News walked the streets of Uptown right where the fire happened just a year ago today. We wanted to hear what you want to see put in the spot.
"A park, some tables and trees in place for people to relax with their family and have a good time," Wanda Gillian of Beaver said.
"Either one of two things, either parking or green space, I like both of those answers," said Beckley native Tomi Peck.
"I'd like to see them put up a business building, something for the economy. Something to bring in more jobs for the people. The buildings have been gone for a year now, I think it's time they get something new up there," Crystal Meadows of Beckley said.
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