WBRZ - Baton Rouge

The push to get a new City Hall complex in New Roads is causing controversy between the Mayor and some council members.

Two weeks ago the council voted to purchase an old antique store for $250,000 dollars and move City Hall there. It would have needed at least $700,000 in renovations. However, last week the same council voted to delay the purchase. That decision came one day before the paperwork was supposed to be finalized.

"Anytime a politician makes a decision and then tries to turn around and change their mind on something...that's bad," Mayor Tommy Nelson said.

Nelson cited safety issues and a lack of space as the reasons why New Roads needed a new building. In fact, the city has been pushing for new digs for the past 25 years.

Councilman Kurt Kellerman doesn't think a new building would serve the area well.

"I don't want to spend $1.2 million of tax payers money on something I dont' think we need," Kellerman said.

The money for a new City Hall complex would come from an account specifically designated for City Hall repairs.

A decision on what to do about the building is expected at Tuesday's council meeting. The mayor is expecting the meeting to be heated.