City of Massillon settles building demo dispute over former Tiger Rags building for $30K

MASSILLON – The city and a downtown property owner have settled a legal dispute that pays Massillon $30,000 related to the cost of demolishing two buildings last year.

The matter was resolved last week when city attorneys and Tiger Rags' owner Jim Rubin agreed to reduce the lien on property at 125 and 129 Lincoln Way W from about $184,400 to $30,000 — the amount being paid to the city.

Second take: Massillon council to consider amended lien rate for Tiger Rags' owner toward demo

Massillon Law Director Justin Richard called the case unique and worthwhile for the city.

"Not only does (the settlement) provide the city $30,000 to reinvest into the buildings of our historic downtown, but it clears the way for the redevelopment of this property by a reputable, local builder with a proven track record," he said in a prepared statement.

City Council amended legislation last year to have property owner Jim Rubin pay about $70,000, or 40%, toward a lien, instead of the full amount — approximately $184,400 — used to tear down the two, vacant structures on Lincoln Way W.

The city used most of a $225,000 reimbursement grant from the state to pay for the demolition of Tiger Rags, which had moved to 167 Lincoln Way E before the demo.

The lien was placed on the two properties at the time of the teardown. But Rubin disagreed, saying he had a deal in place with the city to use the state funding at no cost to him. He eventually brought forth legal action against the city.

City Council recently approved a resolution authorizing the settlement.

"We are grateful to all of our family and friends in Massillon who have supported us and helped us resolve this issue," Rubin said via the statement. "Now, with the pledge of the city to fully support the redevelopment of the property that housed our family business for 46 years."

Future development at Lincoln Way W properties en route?

Comments by Rubin and Richard points toward new development of the former Tiger Rags' property and the adjoining site.

Last year, officials from the A. Altman Co. of Canton announced at a public meeting they were preparing to purchase the buildings and property at 125 and 129 Lincoln Way W from Rubin for $120,000, pending the demolition.

"In the end, the city of Massillon accomplishes its goal of having the buildings demolished, and will receive a new (retail) building producing income tax and real estate revenue," according to a letter penned by Richard Altman, a managing partner of A. Altman.

A voicemail message left Tuesday with A. Altman was not immediately returned.

A. Altman is a fourth-generation, commercial real-estate business, which had assisted with the development of the Akron Children's Hospital facility a few years ago on Lincoln Way E in Massillon.

Reach Steven at steven.grazier@indeonline.com. On Twitter: @sgrazierINDE

This article originally appeared on The Independent: Massillon, Tiger Rags' owner agree on $30K lien related to demo issue