Chickasaw County supervisors were briefed at length Monday on expanding repair work after water damage at the county's heritage center and on next steps while the county's insurance claim is processed.

County maintenance staff and contractors reported that what began as a localized leak has widened into visible ceiling, wall and cupboard damage in the heritage-center kitchen and adjacent areas. "It's becoming a simple water leak to a massive issue now," one county staff member said. The county has scheduled an insurance adjuster to re-inspect the site and to discuss whether the claim will cover replacement of damaged elements, including a commercial kitchen hood and a fire-suppression system monitored by ProShield, the vendor on contract.

Board members and staff discussed several practical and budgetary issues the adjuster may affect: whether to remove or temporarily disconnect the existing hood and suppression system; whether roof patches would be required if rooftop venting is removed (the contract roofer is Culpeper Roofing of La Crosse, Wisconsin, the county noted); whether damaged tile and cabinets should be matched or fully replaced; and whether temporary insulation should be reinstalled before cold weather. Staff said ProShield will dismantle the suppression system and that other vendors (an electrician and insulation contractor) will soon begin demolition and cleanup work.

Supervisors emphasized the need for costed options to present to the board after the adjuster visit. "How much do you want put back?" one supervisor asked, requesting options that include (a) full restoration to pre-loss condition, (b) patch repairs limited to the adjuster's payment, or (c) a broader capital project if the county chooses to upgrade or reconfigure the space. Staff said they would ask the adjuster whether the insurer will fund full replacement, partial repairs, or a settlement that requires county matching funds; the board's next meeting will consider any offer to close the claim.

Work to remove sheetrock, ceilings and damaged insulation was scheduled to begin the day after the meeting; ProShield was preparing to disconnect vents so demolition can proceed. Staff also noted that time spent by county employees on claim management is being logged and will be included in the claim submission.

No final repair or contracting decision was made at the meeting. The board asked staff and the county attorney to review adjuster options and return with repair estimates and recommended next steps.