Webb County has completed its purchase of the Casa Blanca Event Center property along U.S. 59, Pct. 1 Commissioner Jesse Gonzalez said. The deal covers two tracts totaling nearly 15 acres, including an event facility of about 30,000 square feet. Gonzalez said the closing took place last week.
Pct. 3 Commissioner John Galo said the county paid $4.25 million for the property, the same as the seller's asking price. Two appraisals commissioned during the county's consideration placed the combined value of the tracts at about $2.9 million, the story reports. Galo described the acreage and location as a valuable long-term investment.
The county has begun using the building for events while the pavilion at the Webb County Fairgrounds undergoes renovations. Galo said the building could help accommodate several upcoming events. Gonzalez said commissioners are considering housing county departments there and described the site as a possible "one-stop shop" for services, though no department moves have been approved.
Tax Assessor-Collector Patricia Barrera told Commissioners Court on Oct. 13 that she did not believe the property was an ideal location for her office because of traffic along the state highway. She said the location could pose safety concerns for elderly residents and people with disabilities. Barrera also raised concerns about the price being higher than the appraised value.