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'Downtown development is really in need' | Warner Robins help businesses move during Commercial Circle revitalization push

Mayor LaRhonda Patrick says the city will only offer help if a business asks. At this time, they don't have a list of properties available for owners to move to.

WARNER ROBINS, Ga. — Some people in Warner Robins' Commercial Circle have questions about the next steps as the city gets to work on demolishing buildings.

"Downtown development is really in need," Kenneth Ivery said.

He owns the tire shop on Watson that's been around for about 23 years. 

"I own four other lots other than this," he said.

After years of seeing businesses go in the Circle, he wants to help revitalize and bring back business.

"We've been communicating for the past six months, and I'm willing to do what it takes to make this work," Ivery said.

He wants to sell his land to the city, but that's not a luxury all business owners have. There are property owners who lease through the city, and when their leases expire, they'll be displaced. 

RELATED: 'It's finally going to happen': Warner Robins to develop Commercial Circle area as downtown hub

There are also owners who lease from a property manager who sold to the city. Mayor LaRhonda Patrick says the city can help those businesses. 

"If a business needs 3,400 sq. feet we can say, well we do know these areas may fit your need. Here's how you can get in contact with that property owner," Patrick said. 

She says they will only offer assistance if a business asks. 

"We don't want to create any kind of illustration that we want to get them out quickly," she said.

Patrick says she wants the transition to be a smooth transition for everyone, and thanks the businesses that have made this vision happen for them.

 "I and the city really do appreciate the business owners, the land owners, who said 'We want to sell our property to you for the vision of having a new downtown in Warner Robins, Georgia," she said.

She says at this time, the city doesn't have a list of properties in mind for people needing to move. Patrick said they have no renderings yet, as they're still working on blueprint plans.

RELATED: 'You're going to see a lot of great things': Warner Robins plans more downtown demolitions

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