Council tables decisions on damaged quilts as Memorial Hall repairs continue; insurance inquiry ordered

Mayor Ann Smith opened the Nov. 12 meeting of the Beaman City Council and the body turned to ongoing work at Memorial Hall.

Helen Kopsa, who raised the issue, said she is obtaining bids to clean about 10 quilts that were damaged when the building sustained water intrusion. Council member Barry Brockman moved and Council member Deb Ashton seconded to table any decisions about cleaning and preserving the quilts until the city obtains more information on cleaning options and preservation costs; the motion passed on a 5–0 vote. The council did not authorize any expenditure at this meeting.

Justin Lynch, representing Boulder Contracting, reported that trusses and purlins at Memorial Hall have been replaced, the HVAC work is complete, and an electrician is scheduled to finish remaining electrical work. During that update, council members noted additional water damage discovered during repairs. Council member Jason Scafferi moved, seconded by Barry Brockman, to ask the city’s insurance company whether the newly discovered water damage might be covered; the motion passed 5–0.

The council also discussed related downtown property work; Lynch said repairs at 209 Main Street are essentially complete with only minor leveling and cleanup remaining. No timetable for quilt cleaning or an insurance determination was recorded; council actions on quilts and insurance are pending further information from staff and the insurer.

The council adjourned after completing its agenda. Staff are expected to report back when bids and insurance responses are available.