Quorum court hears ARPA-funded update on Old Star Herald building; finish work, bids and costs remain

County staff provided the quorum court with a progress update on the ARPA-funded renovations at the Old Star Herald Recorders Building, saying plumbing, electrical and HVAC work are complete but finish work remains.

The staff report said plumbing is run and capped (toilets not yet installed), HVAC is operational, and much of the electrical and lighting work has been completed by county maintenance. Remaining items include countertops, cabinets, drywall repair and plaster, and painting. The staff member reported there was one bid for painting but that the single bid appeared to be unrealistically low and that additional, detailed bids are needed.

During discussion members referenced remaining funds and gave rough figures in the transcript: staff estimated approximately $60,000 for painting and plaster and suggested that remaining funds for the project might be in the $121,000–$130,000 range (transcript numbers were presented conversationally and should be treated as approximate). The work would also include sanding, plaster repair and sealing or replacing window frames.

No contract award or final bid acceptance was recorded at the meeting; staff said they would continue to solicit bids and return with more complete cost data. Members briefly discussed using volunteers for some tasks and the need to ensure scope and pricing reflect the work required before approving additional spending.

The report was provided for the court’s information; no formal appropriation or change in ARPA fund allocation was voted at the meeting.