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Local newspaper plans to move into new office when property is sold

The Demopolis Times and Blackbelt Gazette is in the early stages of selling its current building and property, and is working with a local realtor to list the building and property for sale.

The building at 315 E. Jefferson Street has been home to the newspaper for almost 45 years, but the many changes since its construction in 1975 have made it less than ideal for a community newspaper.

“Selling the building is a logical step for the Times and Gazette,” said Publisher Robert Blankenship. “Almost half our space here was emptied years ago when the press operation was moved. Advances in the technologies involved in producing the newspaper have also diminished our need for so much space, thus we felt it was time to seek a facility better suited to today’s needs.”

The Times’ office is situated at the corner of Jefferson and Chestnut streets. It is approximately 10,000 square feet and sits on 2.1 acres. The property is being listed with Bill Mackey Real Estate.

“While it was a tough decision to move from our longtime home, the fact is this building exceeds our needs. This property has served us well for many years, but we look forward to beginning a new chapter in a more appropriate facility in Demopolis,” Blankenship said.

The Times will continue operating as normal from its current location as it seeks to sell the property.

“We anticipate no changes for the time being. We will inform our customers and the community as we work through this process. When the time comes, we anticipate a smooth transition into a building where we can continue to serve our community well into the future,” Blankenship said.