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Occoquan approves geotechnical evaluation for Mill House Museum event deck planning, limits early tree removal
Summary
Council approved funding for a geotechnical survey for the proposed event deck behind the Mill House Museum and debated timing of tree removal; the motion to appropriate funds for a geotechnical evaluation not to exceed $100,000 passed unanimously.
Town Manager Adam Linn briefed the council on competing contractor estimates for an event deck behind the Mill House Museum, reporting a second quote ranging from about $200,000 to $400,000 because of site unknowns. Staff recommended funding a geotechnical survey and limited tree removal behind the museum to clarify costs and feasibility.
Vice Mayor Jenn Loges objected to removing trees before a contractor is ready to build, saying the shade helps keep the museum cool and that early removal could impose additional maintenance costs on the museum. Mayor Earnie Porta and Councilmember Theo Daubresse expressed concern that a contractor who had not had a geotechnical analysis might start work and later request change orders, potentially leaving the project incomplete. Councilmember Daubresse suggested issuing an RFP after receiving geotechnical results.
Vice Mayor Loges moved to approve a geotechnical evaluation for the Mill House Museum area and the Riverwalk project and to appropriate funds from the FY2026 Town Budget not to exceed $100,000; Councilmember Eliot Perkins seconded and the motion passed by unanimous voice vote. Town staff noted one estimate for the localized geotechnical work at about $5,500, though the full Riverwalk survey could cost more and was left as an option.
