Zephyrhills Community Development Agency approves reroof of historic Jeffreys House

The Zephyrhills Community Development Agency voted unanimously Sept. 8 to authorize a reroof of the Jeffreys House, a downtown historic property, after staff said repairs alone would be expensive and the roof is about 30 years old.

Agency staff told members that a building official estimated $15,000–$20,000 to make targeted repairs, but a full reroof was recommended to secure “one of the most, if not the most important building in the downtown area.” The formal contractor estimate presented to the board lists the roof at roughly $36,000 with approximately $2,600 in contingency funds for incidental wood sheathing or structural repairs; staff said any additional funds would require returning to the governing body for approval.

In discussing procurement, members expressed a preference for multiple bids on future projects. Staff explained the city uses continuing services contracts for roofing and that only one contractor responded to the solicitation in this instance, which is permitted for work under $75,000 under the continuing services arrangement. Members asked staff to obtain three quotes from continuing-services contractors for similar future work where possible.

After discussion, a motion to approve the reroof was made and seconded. The chair called for the vote and the motion passed unanimously.

The agency directed staff to return for supplemental funding if the contractor uncovers more extensive plywood or structural damage during replacement. Staff said the contingency in the purchase order covers about 10 sheets of plywood and any additional structural work would require a supplemental appropriation.

The approval enables staff to issue a purchase order and to move forward with permitting and scheduling the work.