The Topeka City Council has approved the sale of Sumner School to pastor Zaire Thomas of True Foundation World Outreach Ministries.

The council voted in favor of the sale 6-1 with two members abstaining.

Several people spoke to the council before the vote to express their concerns about the future of the school.

Thomas says he feels blessed and humbled he's allowed to move forward with his plans.

"No great vision comes without a challenge," said Thomas.

Thomas found that out firsthand. He listened as people expressed concerns about him, his church, and his ability to follow through on the promises he's made.

Sandra Lassiter from from Community First, the only other group to bid on Sumner, says her mission isn't over.

"We wanted to see this building preserved and restored for the sake of the community as well as a national legacy and we want to see it done appropriately and we want to see it done well," Lassiter said.

Shawn Leisinger of the Ward-Meade Neighborhood Improvement Association says he's ready to help with the restoration of the school.

"We're glad, I think, to have some resolution so we're moving forward at this point. When I walked out of the council chambers I shook Mr. Zaire Thomas's hand and encouraged him to be involved with the community and have the community input I think he needs to make this successful," Leisinger said.

Thomas says his mission now moves into the planning stage.

Thomas didn't put a timetable on when exactly the work will start, but did say he'll be seeking input from the bishop in his church that is funding the purchase.