Board authorizes up to $15,000 to stabilize downtown ‘back building,’ opts for 200-amp electrical upgrade

The board voted by voice to authorize up to $15,000 to stabilize a downtown back building that was exposed during remediation work and showed significant water damage.

During discussion, a presenter described extensive interior demolition, a rebuilt staircase and water infiltration on the building’s north side where floor joists tie into the original structure. "If not, it's just going to fall in on that north side," the presenter said, urging construction of two new walls and replacement of damaged floor joists to stiffen the structure.

Members discussed electrical-service options for the building and agreed the long-term choice was a 200-amp service rather than a short-term 100-amp hookup. The presenter warned a 100-amp temporary service would likely be obsolete if additional work or future tenants required more power.

Cost estimates were preliminary and described as uncertain; board discussions put additional work at a minimum of about $5,000, with a ballpark overall estimate in the $12,000–$15,000 range. The motion to authorize payment "up to $15,000 total" was made, seconded and approved by voice vote during the meeting.

Board members also asked staff to confirm outstanding payments to the remediation contractor before final closeout. Staff were asked to obtain a current invoice and a timeline for remaining work so the board could monitor final costs and contractor completion.

The board did not record a roll-call tally in the transcript; the motion was approved by voice during the meeting. The board moved on to other agenda items and closed the meeting afterward.

The next procedural step is for staff to report back with contractor invoices and any remaining schedule details for the building’s remediation.