By Howard Packowitz

BLOOMINGTON – Bloomington Mayor Tari Renner said he’s looking forward to working with State Farm as it looks to sell the insurance company’s original headquarters in Downtown Bloomington.

Renner and Interim City Manager Steve Rasmussen were among city leaders who met with State Farm executives Monday, including Vice President of Operations Kevin Callis.

Renner said State Farm is looking for a single buyer, who might rent space for several uses in the 200,000 square foot building at 112 East Washington Street.

“They’re certainly concerned about this community, and they’re concerned about our historic core, and I think they’re very concerned and very fondly remembering the historic nature of that building and its role in shaping Bloomington,” said Renner.

In a news release, State Farm said it is in the early stages of selling the vacant building, which was constructed in four phases from 1929 to 1947. It was the company’s headquarters until 1974.

Renner said it’s too early to say whether the city will offer tax breaks to fill the downtown landmark. He said it’s very likely historic preservation tax credits will be available to the buyer to renovate the building.

“We are also helping them to try to get the word out and maybe even work with a possible investor what the possible uses of that building and their parking lot of 235 spaces across the street might be,” the mayor added.

State Farm said it plans to remove and preserve items of historical value, and the company is considering ways to honor its heritage.

Howard Packowitz can be reached at [email protected]