Update: StanCOG cancels purchase of former bank and would-be steakhouse in downtown Modesto

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A vote Thursday canceled plans by the Stanislaus Council of Governments to move into a former bank on 10th Street in Modesto. The action followed complaints that the $6.6 million cost was too steep and that a public agency should not occupy a building better suited to downtown nightlife.

Critics also worried that StanCOG might spoil the look of the building, valued by fans of Modernist architecture. It began in 1965 as a bank and was purchased in 2018 by an entrepreneur with dreams of a high-end steakhouse. That idea fell through, but the site continues to be a catered event center.

Thursday’s action followed a vote Tuesday by the Stanislaus County Board of Supervisors against approving a tax-exempt loan for StanCOG’s purchase of the building. “I could not be more against this project,” Supervisor Terry Withrow said at that meeting. “I cannot support this in any way.”

Modesto Councilmen Chris Ricci and Nick Bavaro also have been vocal opponents. StanCOG’s use of the building for office space would not fit with what the downtown is meant to be in terms of restaurants and nightlife, the former said. And Bavarro said government use would take “a viable piece of property downtown off the property-tax rolls.”

StanCOG oversees transportation funding for the county government and nine cities. It now leases office space at 11th and I streets, a block from the proposed headquarters. The cost of the relocation included purchase and remodeling.

The StanCOG had board voted 9-3 on April 17 for the move. A motion Thursday to reverse it passed 11-1, with Waterford Mayor Charles Goeken dissenting.

This is a developing story. Check back for more information.