City Council approves exciting future for Main Street

The Blackwell City Council met last Thursday at 6 p.m. in the Blackwell City Hall to open an exciting new chapter for Blackwell. 

A new chapter in the revitalization of downtown Blackwell will soon be underway, as the City approved an Economic Development Agreement to sell the building at 107 & 107 ½ South Main Street to Andrew and Rachel Campbell.

The Campbells have already made waves in the community with their Antique Mall, and will look to open a coffee shop and restaurant on the 100-block of south Main within the coming years, among other things.

The property, previously donated to the Blackwell Facilities Authority by the Dave Morgan Foundation and the Dave Morgan Trust, came with a $50,000 fund dedicated to essential improvements — most notably, a new roof costing $33,604. The Morgan Foundation also funded a $44,215 HVAC upgrade for the building. While elevator work remains unfinished, the property is poised for transformation.

The Campbells, who have already invested over $150,000 in downtown Blackwell, aim to further their vision of restoring the city’s Main Street charm. Their past ventures include:

Opening a brick-and-mortar antique store at 101 South Main in July 2023.

Purchasing and renovating 105 South Main, formerly a marijuana grow facility, into an antique store with restored terrazzo flooring.

Launching CarePortal in Kay County through a partnership with 111Project, aiding foster families and generating $92,265 in economic impact.

Acquiring 113 South Main to prepare it for future commercial use.

Leasing 107 ½ South Main as a resource closet in collaboration with local churches and community leaders.

Renovating and leasing multiple other Main Street properties for local businesses and churches.

The Proposal

Under the proposed agreement, the Campbells would purchase 107 South Main for $18,500, with several improvement commitments to be completed within five years, including:

Removing the 1960s façade to reveal the original brick.

Replacing the metal awning with a canvas one aligned with historic aesthetics.

Upgrading second-story windows and consolidating upstairs electrical service.

Restrictions include a five-year holding period before the property can be sold and a usage clause requiring the property to house a thrift store with volunteer or employment opportunities for at least five years at a capped rent of $1,000 per month.

The City Council was eager to see the momentum of Main Street's revival continue.