Urbana Housing Authority staff told the board that bids are in for repairs to the fire-damaged portion of Columbia Place and that the architect expects to submit revised drawings and permits the week after the meeting.

James (staff member) said the agency received two bids at the bid opening on Aug. 20 and that the low bidder was 4 D Construction, which is also working on Maple Grove. Brad, representing Fitzgerald (the project's architect), told staff the firm has prepared additional revisions and expects to submit permit documents the following Thursday.

Board members asked whether the work covered both sides of the building. Staff clarified the immediate work focuses on the side that burned; the other side will undergo an extensive renovation but was not slated for demolition. On the question of timing, staff said construction could begin in October or November if the city approves finalized plans and insurance and funding logistics conclude.

Board discussion also acknowledged the long elapsed time since the fire. A board member noted the fire occurred on July 7 of the prior year and described the damaged structure as an eyesore; staff replied that the project has been delayed by required approvals and other procedural steps.

Staff described next steps as: finalizing bids and contract award, completing permit submission and review with the city, resolving insurance/funding details, and scheduling a construction start date once permits and funding are in place.