Historic building to become B&B

    In other action Tuesday Bedford City Council unanimously approved a rezoning request which will allow the former Runk and Pratt assisted living facility on East Main Street in Bedford to become an event venue and bed & breakfast.

    Council voted Tuesday to approve the zoning of the property at 812 E. Main Street to allow the use change. Runk and Pratt Health Care Enterprises Inc. will maintain ownership of the facility.
    “I think this will be a great improvement for the city,” Bedford Mayor Skip Tharp said Tuesday, following the vote. He said the ownership group has proven to do business in a “first class manner.”
    The original building was built in 1848 as a boys’ boarding school and has a rich history serving as a key focal point in the central district of Bedford. The property is about 11,000 square feet and includes a 2003 addition to the building.
    The original building was recently renovated and will only require painting and redecorating. The newest addition in the back will be modified to create space for larger gatherings such as weddings and other special events. The building includes an elevator, commercial kitchen and is compliant with safety requirements, he noted.
    The grassy area on the east side of the building will be re-worked to include walkways, gardens and an outside chapel for weddings. The renovations should take about four months and will begin in August. The goal is to be operational for Christmas and holiday events.
    Runk and Pratt has owned the building since 1993. In December 2009 the company made the decision to merge its Bedford assisted living facility at its newest facility at Smith Mountain Lake. Bedrock Church has used the property for the past eight months as church offices, meeting space for small groups and for counseling space.
    Also on Tuesday:
      • City Council adopted a resolution authorizing the execution of a power sales contract with American Municipal Power, Inc. and taking other actions in connection therewith regarding participation in the AMP Fremont Energy Center.
    • Council appropriated funds to the appropriate revenue and expenditure account for the Bedford Life Saving Crew. This represents the city’s portion of the “Four-for-Life” funds.