City leaders hope a Brevard County landmark can be demolished by the end of the year.

The iconic Glass Bank building has sat in disrepair at the entrance to downtown for a decade now.

On Monday, city staff will finally recommend a contractor to tear down the building, choosing Crusader Demolition of Lakeland.

Eight companies made bids to tear down the now abandoned building, which was once the crown jewel of Cocoa Beach's downtown.

Built in 1961, the building was at one time known for hosting parties for celebrities and astronauts.

City leaders claim the structure is now a safety hazard, public nuisance and determinant to the economy.

The building’s two owners were in a long legal spat over who was in charge of repairs.

The city finally stepped in and agreed to tear down the building, as long as the owners paid them back.

Mayor Dave Netterstrom is hopeful the building can be demolished by Christmastime.

Crusader Demolition put in an initial bid price of $145,300 and estimated they could get the building torn down in 50 days.

Negotiations between the city and contractor could take until late October.

Crusader Demolition has some experience with iconic buildings. They're currently working to demolish the Round Building in downtown Orlando.

If an agreement cannot be reached with Crusader, their second choice is NorthStar Inc., out of Orlando.