Council Rejects Sale of American Legion Building, Plans Future Improvements

City of Litchfield Meeting | January 22, 2026

Article Summary: The Litchfield City Council voted unanimously against declaring the American Legion building as surplus property, effectively halting plans to sell the site. Following significant public feedback, city officials decided to retain the building adjacent to Walton Park and explore options for renovation.

Litchfield City Council Key Points:

• Unanimous “No” Vote: The Council voted 7-0 against the ordinance to sell the property at 15-09-128-008 and 15-09-128-005.

• Public Feedback: Alderpersons cited strong community opposition to selling the land adjacent to Walton Park as the primary driver for the decision.

• Future Plans: The City will retain ownership and look into grant opportunities to rehabilitate the structure, which is currently in poor condition.

The Litchfield City Council on Thursday, January 22, 2026, voted unanimously to reject a motion that would have declared the American Legion building and its associated property as surplus, effectively cancelling a proposed sale of the site.

The building, located adjacent to Walton Park, had been the subject of recent discussions regarding a potential sale to a private party. However, during the meeting, council members acknowledged a wave of public sentiment urging the city to keep the property.

Alderperson Josh Hughes initially made the motion to bring the item to the floor for a vote.

Alderperson Bert Holloway spoke extensively about the feedback received from residents.

“I created a survey and I put it out there to the public on social media to get that feedback,” Holloway said during the meeting. “The people spoke. I value your opinion… I do change my stance on that publicly.”

Holloway noted that while he initially looked at the issue from a liability and fiscal responsibility standpoint, the democratic process works best when officials listen to their constituents.

Alderperson Ray Kellenberger also voiced strong support for retaining the property, suggesting that selling it would be a mistake given its location.

“I think this piece of property should stay as surplus, not put it up [for sale],” Kellenberger said. “There’s so many opportunities for that piece of property, what we can do to improve what [Walton] Park is as a whole.”

Building Inspector Gary Baker noted that the building is currently in “horrible condition.”

A previous inspection report from the Park District is available to guide future decisions. By voting “no” on the ordinance, the council has committed the city to maintaining the building for the time being.

Mayor Fleming noted that the council will now discuss all options, research grant funding, and determine the best use for the property to enhance local amenities.