Following due process, the Hays City Commission Thursday night determined that there is no feasible alternative to the demolition of the historic opera house. Commissioner Henry Schwaller said it breaks his heart to have to tear down the building, which has become a safety hazard, but it will cost millions just to repair it.

The owner has agreed to move forward with demolition. The city’s action Thursday night was required by the state historical society.

The commission also approved setting aside land east of the Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex for a dog park, giving the Friends of the Hays Dog Park group two years to raise the necessary funds.