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Courthouse renovation progress reported; contingency, HVAC issue and revolving loan fund status updated
Summary
County project staff reported ongoing courthouse renovation work, a manufacturer/engineer-approved fix to an HVAC/ABR problem that required an immediate time-and-materials change order, sidewalk planning in coordination with Winamac, and a revolving loan fund balance of about $290,000.
County project staff updated commissioners Jan. 21 on the courthouse renovation, reporting steady progress on mechanical, electrical and plumbing work and new millwork installation while noting two items of concern: an unresolved HVAC/ABR system issue that required an immediate time-and-materials change order, and an outstanding sidewalk request that will require further coordination with Winamac Town Hall.
Why it matters
The courthouse project uses contingency funding and bond proceeds; work delays or unforeseen system repairs can increase costs and push back completion dates.
Key points from the update
- Change orders: The project manager reported approving two small change orders under his signature, totaling $5,767.18 (including architect fees). Separate time-and-materials authorization was approved to address an ABR system problem; the final cost is uncertain and staff expect to seek reimbursement from the architect, engineers or the manufacturer once responsibility is determined.
- Contingency and funds: The manager said contingency is "just a hair above $200,000" before expected sidewalk costs and the ABR reimbursement are finalized. He also noted that the project has earned about $72,000 in interest from invested bond proceeds, and estimated that total contingency funds likely exceed $300,000 when combined with the cash and near-cash reserves from the bond proceeds.
- Schedule and remaining work: Much of the MEP and paint work is complete; some ceiling installation is on hold pending the ABR/HVAC fix. Basement remediation and retaining-wall work were reported as progressing and the basement is taking on a finished appearance.
Revolving loan fund
County staff reported a revolving loan fund balance of about $290,000. Staff said four loans remain current or nearly so; one borrower needed to make a January payment to keep all loans in good standing. Commissioners instructed staff to proceed with reviewing program guideline revisions before reopening the program to applicants.
Ending
Staff will continue to track the ABR/HVAC repair costs and coordinate with the architect and manufacturer on reimbursements; sidewalk options will be discussed with Winamac officials and reported back to the board.
