Langley will soon accept proposals to purchase the firehouse building on Second Street.

The city council approved the request for proposals Monday at its regular meeting. Seeking proposals helps the city maintain some degree of control over what goes into the space and for how much. It was formerly the city’s fire station before being converted in 2009 into a blown-glass studio run by artist Callahan McVay.

“The RFP is written in such a way that price is not the sole determination,” Director of Community Planning Michael Davolio said.

McVay recently asked the city about buying the building, prompting city officials to look at their options. On the advice of Davolio, the city is pursuing the request for proposal route. The first step requires the city to surplus the building if indeed Langley chooses to part with the property.

As part of any future agreement, Langley would retain an easement on the parking lot for public use and the Second Street-facing area that is part of the plaza.

Councilwoman Rene Neff said it would be good for the city to no longer worry about upkeep of the aging cinderblock building. The city council will ultimately have the decision whether or not to sell the building.