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Supervisors consider fountain restoration after $30,000 grant; estimates range from $59,000 to $90,000
Summary
County staff reported about $30,000 in a fountain fund and presented two preservation quotes — approximately $58,000–$59,000 to refurbish original elements and $80,000–$90,000 to recast — and discussed pursuing historic‑preservation grants and timing constraints on awarded funds.
A staff member briefed the board on options for restoring the courthouse fountain, reporting there is "a little over $30,000" in the fountain fund and that one recent grant (Hansen Center) provided $30,000 to be used within a year. Two contractor estimates were described: one in the $58,000–$59,000 range to pick up, disassemble, sand‑blast, repair and reassemble the fountain and another $80,000–$90,000 estimate that would recast the fountain.
About the lower estimate, the speaker said the contractor would "transport to Alabama, disassemble, sand blast, clean, repair, replace castings where necessary, reassemble, zinc coat, prime paint, water test, deliver, and install." The higher estimate was characterized as a complete recasting and thus a larger capital expense.
Board members and staff discussed potential funding sources including the Iowa Historical Society preservation grants, other foundations and American Legion support. The group noted that some preservation grants require the structure be on a historical register prior to funding and that designation timelines could delay work. "My fear with the historical societies is that it has to be on the register before you give any money," a board member said.
Supervisors agreed they would likely need to budget for restoration at some future date if additional grants do not materialize; no binding budget appropriation was made at the meeting. Staff said they will continue applying for grants and will clarify any conditions on the Hansen Center award so the county does not forfeit funds if they cannot obligate them within the grant’s time window.
The board did not take a vote to commit county funds at this meeting. The matter remains under study pending further grant outcomes and a recommendation on whether to pursue restoration now or defer to a future budget cycle.
