HANNIBAL, MO. -- The federal government is delaying the demolition of a commercial property included in the city of Hannibal¹s flood-buyout program.

The Hannibal Courier Post reports Hannibal Machine, Inc., whose current building on 11th St. was bought by the city in August, is in a holding pattern regarding the property where it plans to build its new building.

The company cannot begin building until an environmental site review takes place.

The review is required because a natural gas easement dating back to 1932 was found during a title search for the property.

The Small Business Administration requires the EPA approval before any construction at the site can begin.

The city council voted to grant the company a 60-day lease extension at its current site.