After years of exploring options for a new city hall property, Sequim City Council approved a $1,250,000 agreement with Serenity House of Clallam County Monday night to purchase buildings at 215 N. Sequim Ave.

City Manager Steve Burkett said the property is 22,000 square feet including the thrift store and a 10-unit apartment building. The purchased property goes from Seal Street to Sequim Avenue and connects to the existing city hall property at 152 W. Cedar St.

Serenity House requested the city lease back the buildings for $1,500 a month for three years, which is still in negotiations.

Burkett said the city won’t need the buildings immediately and allows time for Serenity House to find new facilities.

Councilors voted 5-1 for the purchase with Bill Huizinga absent, and Don Hall saying no because he preferred an option to purchase properties along Spruce Street.

Burkett said there were four options in the area and prices were about the same for all but the Spruce Street options dealt with five property owners and only one with Serenity House.

Monies for the purchase will come out of a capital account with $2.25 million.

City staff estimates building a new city hall and police station at about $12-18 million.

More information to come.