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In its initial proposal, the village planned to transform the college-owned house at 165 Main St. into a community center. The building would also include village offices, while adjacent land would become recreational space for residents.Ìý

But that project quickly changed when Wells listed the house for sale in late July.ÌýThe asking price for the 3,008-square-foot home, which has three bedrooms and three bathrooms, was $1,395,000.Ìý

Although a sale has not been finalized, the house is categorized as "under contract" on .Ìý

Aurora Mayor Jim Orman told Ë®¹ûÅÉAV Tuesday that the village contacted Wells College about including the Thomas House in its DRI plan.Ìý

"That goes into the proposal and the next day, a for-sale sign goes into the yard," he said. "That's what we've been dealing with." 

Despite the impending sale of the house, Orman is hopeful that other aspects of the proposed $1.25 million project will be part of the final DRI strategy. Aurora, along with Cayuga and Union Springs, won a $10 million grant from the state to fund downtown projects.Ìý

The revamped project would include the construction of basketball and pickleball parts in a grassy area owned by the college next to the Thomas House. New parking areas, walking paths and a new dock would be added on land near the former Wells College Boathouse on Cayuga Lake.Ìý

"Thats what they wanted in the DRI — access to the lake," Orman said. "It's not like everybody has it, so it's a big deal." 

It's not the first time Aurora's DRI plans have been affected by Wells College's closure.Ìý

When Aurora, Cayuga and Union Springs submitted its DRI application in 2023, the village collaborated with Wells College on a proposed project to renovate Cleveland Hall. The building would've housed village offices and a workforce development center.Ìý

According to the DRI application, the project cost was $2.4 million. The village of Aurora and Wells College sought $960,000 in DRI funds for the project.Ìý

Aurora, Cayuga and Union Springs were awarded the $10 million prize in February. Two months later, Wells College announced it would close at the end of the academic year.Ìý

"That took (the Cleveland Hall project) right off the table," Orman said.Ìý

If the amended proposal isn't successful, there is a backup plan. Orman said the village owns property behind the firehouse that could be used for the project.Ìý

A committee consisting of representatives from Aurora, Cayuga and Union Springs is developing a strategic plan that is expected to be finalized within the next two months. The project list, which must be approved by the state, will be released in early 2025.Ìý