The new owner of the former Hartley-Melvin-Sanborn Elementary School received pointed criticism from the Hartley City Council on Monday.

Members discussed a perceived lack of progress at the building, which was sold by the school board to Hestia Investments last December for $100. The council was concerned about a lack of exterior upkeep at the building as well as allegations of standing water inside.

Members believed nothing had been done that was promised when the building was sold late last year.

"This should be a [school] district problem, not a City of Hartley problem," said Council M...