The Kent County Board of Commissioners voted Nov. 6 to adopt a capital improvement transfer and confirm assignment of the facility replacement and renovation demolition project to the county building authority.

Minority Vice Chair MacLeod moved the resolution; Commissioner Hildebrand supported it. The motion passed by roll call with 21 yays and 0 nays.

Tim Brecht, Kent County facilities director, told commissioners an RFP to demolish the hospital building was open with bids due Nov. 25. He said the building authority would consider awarding a contract at its Dec. 10 meeting. "I would anticipate a basement abatement could start in January and February and then potentially start knocking the hospital down in maybe mid March," Brecht said, while noting demolition work depends on weather conditions and contractor scheduling. He said the county held two information sessions for neighbors and the public.

Commissioner Steck asked when residents would likely see cranes and heavy work; Brecht confirmed public outreach has begun and the county is coordinating abatement and contractor schedules. The board's action assigns the project to the building authority and moves the CIP funds needed for demolition and related work.

The resolution (listed on the agenda as a strategic capital CIP transfer to the facility replacement and renovation project for demolition) provides budget authority to proceed with procurement and pre‑demolition abatement; no final demolition contract was signed at the meeting.