Near the center of North Lima, demolition crews began the process of tearing down several buildings.

According to Beaver Township Zoning Inspector Rick Martin, an out-of-state company has purchased multiple parcels of property near the intersection of State Routes 7 and 165.

And on Friday, the demolition of two of four buildings began. This includes a former church and the former township fire department.

"(We've had) residents and people from the area wanting to know when are they going to be demolished because they felt they posed a significant threat to public safety," said Martin.

Martin says there are also plans to demolish a near by vacant home and hot dog shop.

There are no documented plans for the sites, but Martin said the new owner has discussed with township officials the potential for a new plaza with a restaurant as the anchor. Martin said it's possible the hot dog shop could serve as that restaurant at the future location.

The company would need to first present commercial plans for review, as well as seek building permits.