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DOWAGIAC — An ice cream parlor that has served the Dowagiac community for more than 40 years could soon have a new lease on life.

During its Dec. 11 meeting, the Dowagiac City Council approved a resolution authorizing the city to prepare a Request for Proposals to seek a new operator of the “Twistees” facility, 231 S. Front St., Dowagiac, for 2024.

The city owns the building that has been historically leased to Nancy Shufert, who passed away earlier this year, to operate an ice cream shop next to City Hall. The property has been serviced and inspected and is in good working condition. Several of those inquiring about leasing the building have expressed interest in this equipment (i.e. freezers, refrigerators, beverage machines, etc) being part of the RFP.

Currently there have been four requests from individuals and business operators to be included in the selection process for the upcoming lease of the building next to city hall for an ice cream shop operation beginning in 2024.

The city plans to purchase the equipment and recover the cost when the property is leased to the next business owner. The estate is willing to sell and the city is working to confirm the estimates of $50,000 for the assets. With the motion approved, an agreement that sells the assets, terminates any leasehold rights that may be in question and reimburses the city for unpaid utility bills can be finalized.