Norwich — The long vacant Reid & Hughes building, 193-198 Main St., might have less than three months to stand if no viable developer comes forth by Sept. 14, when a two-year marketing option with the Norwich Community Development Corp. comes to an end.

Aldermen on Monday passed a resolution asking City Manager John Salomone to report on the building with “emphasis to its condition, structural issues and any health and safety risks” at the Aug. 1 City Council meeting.

If no viable development plans are on the horizon, some council members said Monday, demolition should start by mid-September.

Alderwoman Joanne Philbrick said she's not looking for another study on the condition of the city-owned building, but for a demolition sign to be posted as of Sept. 14.

Philbrick recently viewed the decaying building from inside the front door with city Director of Inspections James Troeger.

She said she fears a possible fire with vagrants trapped inside the building.

“Mr. City Manager,” Philbrick said, “tear down that building.”

Alderman Gerald Martin agreed and said it would be cheaper for the city to tear it down than to subsidize a possible development.

Salomone told aldermen as of now there are no developers in sight.

Alderman H. Tucker Braddock cast the lone dissenting vote on the 6-1 resolution.

Braddock said tearing it down would reflect poorly on the city, and he would rather spend city money “in a positive direction” to support a development.

Braddock also questioned the expense of demolishing the building.

Troeger said Tuesday he does not have updated demolition cost estimates.

Previous estimates included asbestos and lead abatement to prepare the building for redevelopment or partial demolition.

If no abatement is done, Troeger said, all the debris would have to be considered asbestos contaminated, which could double the disposal cost.

If the 1880 former retail store is labeled historic, Troeger said, it would require a 60-day demolition waiting period, rather than a 30-day period.

Dale Plummer, president of the Norwich Heritage Trust preservation group credited with saving the historic Wauregan Hotel across Main Street from Reid & Hughes, said calling for demolition is premature.

Plummer, also the city historian, said there have been development proposals, but the city would not support them.

After a preservationist campaign to save the Wauregan, state historic preservation officials denied the city's request to demolish the building, saying there were alternatives.

City and state grants contributed to the $20 million renovation into affordable housing apartments and street-level businesses.

Plummer said city officials need to give financial support to revitalize the building for long-term benefits rather than spending money for no possible redevelopment.

The small footprint sandwiched between two Main Street buildings would not likely be redeveloped, Plummer said.

“This is exactly the same mentality and the same solution, which isn't really a solution, as with the Wauregan 17 years ago,” Plummer said. “I'm disappointed.”

c.bessette@theday.com