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Council discusses multimillion-dollar repairs to historic mansion roof and windows
Summary
Council and staff discussed extensive, potentially multimillion-dollar repairs to a historic mansion, including layered roofing, deteriorating window framing and a damaged finial; officials said they aim to preserve historic character and explore local manufacturing options for replacement windows.
Jamestown council members and staff used part of the Nov. 3 work session to review needed repairs on a local historic mansion, describing widespread roofing and window deterioration that could require a major capital project.
"You're looking at a multimillion dollar project for the roof, the windows," said Speaker 5, describing multiple layers of roofing in places, active leaks from the tower, and wood that is deteriorating around the window frames. Council and staff discussed options that would preserve historic parameters while addressing leaks and structural decline.
Speakers noted that in some areas several layers of roofing remain; in others fewer layers exist, and partial repairs may be possible. "There’s a possibility that you can replace it with rubber," Speaker 3 said about roof material in some sections, while staff cautioned that some portions may ultimately require more extensive work.
The group discussed sourcing duplicated windows from local manufacturers if possible; Speaker 3 referenced a local business that had previously made custom window duplicates. For short-term protection, staff said they plan to cover the tower's finial with canvas this winter to reduce further water intrusion.
No formal capital authorization or funding number was set during the session. Staff said they will continue to solicit contractor quotes and coordinate preservation-sensitive repair options before returning with specific cost estimates.
