NORFOLK, Neb. -- Ho-Chunk has taken an interest in Norfolk's Kensington building and is considering purchasing the historic building. 

Following the city's expressed interest in redeveloping the Kensington building back in January, one potential buyer has been working toward a potential deal. Ho-Chunk, the economic branch of the Winnebago tribe, is looking to convert the Kensington back into a hotel should they acquire the building, Ho-Chunk leaders said. While no purchase or official agreement has been made at this time, Norfolk Housing's executive director Gary Bretschneider says he sees a deal going through. Bretschneider expressed optimism about Ho-Chunk's potential offer and anticipates them going through with a deal.

"They expressed very, very excited interest in the building" Bretschneider said. "They're excited to come to Norfolk and be a part of it. They've looked for several years to try and do something in town and when they saw this opportunity, they just couldn't say no."

Should the deal be finalized, those using the building as an apartment will need to look elsewhere for housing. Bretschneider says they are working with current tenants, helping them to find new locations, and are not charging any early move-out fees.

"We have 53 apartments in the building, and we're down to about 47 right now that still have tenants in them," Bretschneider said. "We are working with tenants daily...working with all of them to try and find them a location. We're encouraging them if this goes through, why not be early and go find one (living space) you really want instead of waiting till the very end to pile up with everyone else. "

Ho-Chunk plans to visit the building in person in the coming weeks with city staff and engineers. Bretschneider says after touring the building and evaluating it, Ho-Chunk will have until August 15, to enter into a purchase agreement as well as request tax-increment financing.