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Council approves nearly $394,035 renovation of Greenwalt Historical House after debate over cost and single bid
Summary
Council voted 5–1 to award a $382,558 low bid (plus 3% contingency, total not to exceed $394,035) to renovate the Greenwalt Historical House at Heritage Park; council members expressed concern about the price and that only one specialized restoration bid was received.
Taylor City Council voted 5–1 on Oct. 7 to approve renovations to the Greenwalt Historical House at Heritage Park with Decima LLC as the low bidder.
The contract amount is $382,558 plus a 3% contingency, for a total project authorization not to exceed $394,035, to be funded through the TBA Capital Outlay account. Project staff described the work as an extensive structural renovation — including foundation, joist replacement, windows, siding, insulation and mechanical systems — and said the bid represented a full restoration rather than a short‑term repair.
Several council members expressed surprise at the cost and noted that only one responsive bid was received despite the city rebidding and extending the solicitation once. One council member said, "it's so much money" and asked whether the council could postpone the decision; others said the building is in poor condition and that delaying work could create safety risks for the tenant. Councilman Johnson said floor joists and soft floors make the work urgent and urged proceeding to protect public safety.
Project staff said the bidder specializes in historic renovation, has completed similar municipal projects, and the quoted materials (windows, siding) include manufacturer warranties. Staff also said the tenant’s lease provides a window for work (tenant occupancy through October) and that the timing aligns with seasonal lead times and procurement. Members asked about the unencumbered balance in the TBA capital account; staff said approximately $1.2 million was unencumbered when they ran the report.
After discussion, the council approved the contract on a roll call vote, 5 yes to 1 no. Staff said they will schedule and coordinate work to minimize disruption and will confirm warranty coverage and maintenance responsibilities as the project proceeds.
Council members asked that staff ensure long‑term maintenance plans and warranty documentation are included in the project files before work proceeds.
