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Commissioners discuss using restricted abatement funds and hiring an engineer for Nazarene Church repairs
Summary
Commissioners discussed options to fund repair work at the Nazarene Church, including hiring an engineer using restricted abatement funds and whether to appropriate a full not‑to‑exceed project amount or fund engineering first.
The board considered next steps on a proposed repair and renovation project for a Nazarene Church building in the county.
Staff reported they had contacted an engineer who previously worked on county roof projects, Anthony Ehlers, but that he is currently busy and may not be available in a timely way. Commissioners and staff discussed whether to appropriate a limited amount now to pay an engineering firm to produce plans and cost estimates, or to authorize a not‑to‑exceed appropriation for the entire project (the figure discussed informally in the meeting was $250,000 for the whole project).
Staff emphasized they plan to use restricted abatement funds (restricted tax‑increment or abatement funds available to the county) to pay for the work and that funds would be appropriated before work begins. Commissioners expressed interest in a two‑phase approach: (1) appropriate funds for initial engineering and design and then (2) present a tangible, engineered scope and budget for council review and appropriation for construction.
The board and staff discussed contractual options, including entering a design‑build contract with a not‑to‑exceed amount or appropriating funds in phases. Several commissioners said they preferred appropriating a modest amount to pay an engineer for initial design and estimates, then returning to council for construction appropriation once more exact figures are available. Staff said they would contact additional engineers and return with a firm cost estimate for design services and a recommended appropriation method.
No final appropriation was adopted at the meeting; commissioners directed staff to obtain engineer proposals and prepare a recommended, funded plan that clarifies use of restricted abatement funds and estimated total project cost before further action.
