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Council selects architect for Haynes Auditorium assessment; cost estimate described as modest portion of likely restoration
Summary
Batesburg‑Leesville council voted to hire GMP Associates to conduct an assessment of Haynes Auditorium, funded from the H‑tax allocation; staff estimated the assessment at roughly $9,000–$12,000 and said a full restoration could cost well over $1 million.
The Batesburg‑Leesville Town Council approved a motion Feb. 10 to select GMP Associates to perform an assessment study of Haynes Auditorium. Council authorized use of hospitality‑tax funds allocated to Haynes Auditorium to pay for the assessment.
Nut graf: The study will inventory the building's electrical, plumbing, mechanical and life‑safety systems, produce as‑built drawings and recommend phased work and cost estimates. Staff and council characterized the assessment as a road map to prioritize life‑safety repairs and to support future budgeting or grant applications.
Details: Town staff said the GMP proposal estimated about $9,000 for the assessment plus incidental costs; staff suggested budgeting up to $12,000 to be conservative. Council members asked whether the town was ready to commit to a larger construction budget; staff said the work would likely be phased, that some budget (reported in the meeting as a $45,000 H‑tax allocation) exists for Haynes work, and that larger capital needs — including electrical, HVAC relocation and structural repairs — could exceed $1 million.
Council discussion touched on intended uses if the building is restored: councilmembers expressed interest in community theater, school partnerships and daytime children's programming. Members also discussed preserving interior elements (chairs) and prioritizing life‑safety fixes.
Timing and scope: Staff said GMP's timeline would deliver the assessment to council about 49 days after authorization; the assessment will not include construction work but will provide cost estimates and recommended phases. Council approved the selection and directed staff to proceed.
Follow up: Staff will return assessment results to council and incorporate findings into the H‑tax and capital budget discussions planned for March and April.
