York Mayor Kim Bracey has invited the public to a formal dedication of the city's new municipal building Thursday.

City offices relocated to 101 S. George St. in March after city officials bought the former Sovereign Bank building for $2.7 million last year. About $860,000 was spent renovating the 34,852-square-foot building.

The open house, which will include tours, is scheduled for 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday at City Hall, 101 S. George St.

In a news release, Bracey said she is "thrilled to showcase our new offices."

The decision to purchase the building was controversial, triggering criticism from residents worried the cash-strapped city was spending money frivolously. Officials, however, have said the city is essentially breaking even on the transaction.

That's because Sovereign Bank has maintained a branch in the building and pays rent to the city. The city is also saving money by no longer needing to rent office space at One MarketWay West.

The two-floor building features new York City Council chambers with capacity for about 80 people and a parking lot to accommodate visitors. All but the police department is now housed at 101 S. George St.

The city is gearing up to transform the former city hall at 50 W. King St. into a modern police station. A $5 million state grant is committed to the project, which could be bid in the fall.

- Erin James may also be reached at ejames@yorkdispatch.com.