It didn’t take long for Wright City officials to get moving on a major project to turn a former church facility into a new city hall.Aldermen last week adopted two ordinances related to the passage of the $1.5 million bond issue that will allow the city to purchase property for the city hall and park space and renovate the existing building.The city anticipates closing on the former St. Charles Assembly of God Church property at 636 Westwoods Road on July 7. It will pay $320,000 for the 4 1/2-acre property.The city also has selected Cunningham, Vogel & Rost, P.C., to serve as bond counsel for the project. The firm already is the city’s legal counsel and will be paid $33,350 for the additional work.An ordinance finalizing the contract was unanimously approved by aldermen at last Thursday’s meeting.The city also will be seeking qualifications from architectural and engineering firms interested in planning and designing the project.“Things are off and running,” said Karen Girondo, the city’s economic development director/treasurer. “We have hit the ground running on this.”Wright City will renovate the 10,000-square-foot former church building into a new city hall, along with space in the lower level possibly designated for a food pantry and storm shelter. There also is enough room on the property, located just east of the Lions Club, to construct two ballfields and a playground.The existing city hall, at 203 Veterans Memorial Parkway, will be renovated to provide more room for the police department.All renovations and park construction is slated to be completed in 2017, officials said.Voters approved the $1.5 million bond issue April 5 by a vote of 270-171. This was the city’s second attempt to pass proposal which failed by fewer than 10 votes in August.The bonds will be paid off in 20 years. Officials said personal property and real estate taxes are expected to increase by no more than 20 cents per $100 of assessed valuation.Police Chief Matt Eskew, speaking out at last Thursday’s board of aldermen meeting, expressed thanks to elected officials and others who helped promote the project throughout the community.“This is definitely much needed space,” he remarked.Wright City