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Builders association offers to restore AC Freeman House; city to deliver lease draft
Summary
The Builders Association volunteered to rehabilitate the AC Freeman House and asked the city for a lease enabling hands‑on work; preliminary estimate about $400,000 and an 18‑month timeframe were discussed, with funding options including 1% sales tax funds.
Representatives of the builders association outlined a volunteer‑driven plan to rehabilitate the AC Freeman House and asked the city to finalize a lease enabling contractor access and oversight.
TJ Thornberry, speaking as a contractor and representative of the builders association, said the structure’s storm damage appeared mostly superficial and repairable. “We're gonna start from the outside, get it watertight, and then move to the inside,” Thornberry said. He estimated a ballpark cost of about $400,000, cautioned that investigative demolition could reveal more damage, and suggested an 18‑month timeline to complete the work if the project proceeds as a public‑private partnership.
Why it matters: The AC Freeman House is a locally historic property the city owns. Prior estimates for full renovation had risen into the millions; the builders association’s offer aims to limit public cost by sourcing donated or discounted labor and materials while allowing the city to retain ownership.
Key details discussed: Thornberry said the builders association’s board has endorsed pursuing the concept and that he plans to prepare a business plan once he receives a draft lease. The draft lease is being prepared by Mr. Leskovich (city staff), and the city clerk said the lease should be available to Thornberry “within the next probably a day or 2.” The builders association requested unencumbered access during work, plans to submit invoices through the association for payment and expects to solicit donations and discounted subcontractor work. Thornberry said the association’s caveat is that the project “doesn't cost the CDBIA any money.”
Funding and approvals: Council members noted there are matching grant programs but cautioned those grants may not be usable for this revised, smaller‑scale plan; staff said 1% sales tax funds could cover the amount discussed. City staff plans to place a council agenda item to approve the project if the builders association decides to proceed after reviewing the lease.
Next steps and responsibilities: City staff will deliver the draft lease to Thornberry for review by his board. If the association proceeds, Thornberry said he will prepare a formal business plan and a scope of work for approvals. The city clerk said council would consider the proposal as an agenda item once the association gives a formal yes or no. No formal council action was taken at the joint meeting.
Ending: The builders association's volunteer proposal was positively received; council and staff will work with Thornberry on lease details and a future council agenda item to secure formal approval.
