FORT DODGE – A local credit union plans to build a new office on a large vacant lot along Fifth Avenue South in Fort Dodge.

Jordan Hensley, the president and chief executive officer of People’s Credit Union, said Monday night that his financial institution plans to buy the property at Fifth Avenue South and 17th Street and build a new facility there. He said the plan also includes buying a long-vacant former convenience store east of the vacant lot.

Hensley did not announce a timeline for constructing the new office.

People’s Credit Union, based in Webster City, came to Fort Dodge in June 2016 when it acquired Frontier Credit Union at 13 S. Third St.

The vacant lot is owned by the city government.

In 2007, the city bought rundown buildings at the site for about $160,000, according to City Manager David Fierke. Those buildings were demolished.

“It was an ugly eyesore that was often referred to in the community as blight,” Mayor Matt Bemrich said.

Hensely spoke during a public hearing during Monday’s City Council meeting that was the first step in the process of selling the vacant lot.

One other person spoke during the hearing. Doug Ostbloom, of 526 S. 18th St., said people who live near the site want an alley there to be maintained. He said the alley is used by people who live at seven nearby homes to reach their garages.

The council took no action on selling the property Monday.

However, it did take an action to further develop the infrastructure for the Fifth Avenue South/Kenyon Road corridor of commerce.

The council hired Snyder & Associates, of Ankeny, to prepare preliminary plans for rebuilding Fifth Avenue South between 15th and 21st streets at a cost of $111,500.

Fifth Avenue South between 21st and 31st streets has already been rebuilt in phases over a number of years since 2006. The project widened the road to create turning lanes and added street lights, sidewalks and other amenities.