Jennings County park board approves $13,150 contract to repair Walnut Grove Schoolhouse

The Jennings County park board voted to approve a $13,150 contract with First Choice Construction to repair the deteriorating Walnut Grove Schoolhouse, the board decided during its Jan. 27 meeting.

S1 presented photos and a scope-of-work packet showing rot in roof rafters, a patched hole and other structural damage. After discussing three contractor quotes, S6 moved to approve the First Choice Construction bid and S2 seconded. S4 called the question and the board voted in favor; S4 noted there were "none opposed." The board instructed staff to proceed with scheduling and to begin repairs when seasonal conditions permit.

S1 said the schoolhouse is not listed on the National Historic Register, so she does not expect to be eligible for related grant funding. She told the board the work will address immediate structural issues and the roof and that contractors estimated how winter scheduling might delay on-site work.

Board members discussed the schoolhouse’s local appeal, noting it draws photographers and visitors for family and engagement photos and that repairing it preserves that attraction. S1 said she had received three quotes and recommended proceeding so the building does not deteriorate further.

Next steps: staff will coordinate with First Choice Construction on timing and notify the board when work is scheduled to begin. The board did not provide a numerical roll-call tally in the transcript beyond the chair’s statement that no members opposed the motion.

Quote attribution: S6 opened the motion: "I'll make a motion that we approve the quote given by First Choice Construction for $13,150." S4 confirmed the outcome, saying, "All those in favor of First Choice for 13,150... None opposed."