Council approves coating system for Navasota library roof after tests and debate over replacement costs

The Navasota City Council on July 14 approved a $29,662.01 contract with Energy Coating Systems to apply an ASTEC 2000 insulating coating system to the Navasota Public Library roof, and directed staff to address interior repairs tied to historic leaks. Supporters said the coating is a lower-cost alternative that allows the city to fix attic insulation, ceiling tiles and mold issues now. City staff said a full roof replacement had been estimated much higher and that the coating comes with a 10‑year renewable warranty. “Had we been required to replace it in its whole, we could have done that and we would have had $0 left to do any of the interior repairs for the damage that has occurred,” a city official told the council. The item followed public comment from Rochelle Herr, co‑founder of Friends of the Navasota Public Library, who urged proactive investment in the building’s future. Herr noted earlier studies and rising replacement estimates: “At that time, the comprehensive assessment indicated that a new roof installation would have cost $200,000… today, it appears the projected cost for a new roof in 2025 has risen to $400,000.” Contractor Doug Loomis of Energy Coating Systems described the staff recommendation and options for the council: “These two proposals that I show here are not to be done both. It's an either or.” The chosen package includes a roof inspection, targeted repairs, gutter work, pressure wash, replacement of loose fasteners and application of the coating and carries the manufacturer‑issued 10‑year warranty the vendor described as renewable. City staff said they had already begun air‑quality and mold testing at the library; the community services director reported testing was conducted July 14 and that staff would act on any results. Staff also said the planned exterior work could be done without closing the library, though some pressure‑washing or localized inspections might be scheduled to limit impact on operations. The council approved the contract with the requested proviso that the final agreement be in a form acceptable to the city manager and city attorney. Implementation steps noted by staff include monthly gutter maintenance, targeted attic access repairs, and quotes already solicited for indoor mold remediation and insulation replacement. Council members framed the decision as balancing immediate remediation of interior damage and long‑term roof life. The motion passed unanimously.