With four pieces of property in its inventory, the Mineola Economic Development Corp. board discussed ways to move them onto the property tax rolls.

One of the parcels is for sale, the lot for the former 1888 building in the downtown area.

Mercy Rushing, MEDC executive director, said the city has received a few inquiries, but it never proceeds past a phone call.

The property is listed for $39,500 and has a large sign on the corner of Johnson and Commerce.

But the commercial property needs to be listed for wider exposure, Rushing explained.

She suggested the board consider seeking Requests for Qualifications from local real estate firms.

Establishing a policy to govern future sales will also be considered.

The MEDC also purchased property earlier this year just west of the 1888 lot off Commerce, which includes a parking lot to help with traffic during downtown community events.

It also includes some facilities, and Rushing said the city has been approached about an idea to turn it into an entertainment venue.

The city has already made improvements with a new roof and updated electrical service.

The city is working with a prospect for the third property, secured just recently off Hwy. 69 South. 

The fourth piece, in the industrial park off Blomberg St., is being considered for expansion by a tenant of the park.

In the financial report, Rushing said sales tax income, which funds the EDC, continue to increase, with a double digit rise in November.

So far this calendar year the city has received $2,032,895 in sales tax income, and one-third of that goes to the EDC.