The process of eliminating sewer issues and addressing asbestos concerns inside the Greene County Courthouse would begin with an estimated $1.3 price tag for construction of a three story bathroom facility adjacent to the one hundred plus year old building.
That projection from architect Dave Wright came during an afternoon meeting of the Courthouse Renovation Committee Thursday, their first meeting since June.
Since that time, Wright reports results of core samples have shown the property foundation is sound.
ESTIMATED 8 MONTH CONSTRUCTION
Wright estimates construction of the nearly 1500 square foot building will provide six total public restrooms, two on each floor in addition to restrooms for employees and some storage space. Once completed the majority of toilets in the courthouse will be decommissioned.
UTILITIES WILL BE COSTLY
Wright says moving utilities, electricity water and gas lines will be costly but does not yet have a dollar estimate.
BANK BUILDING FUTURE
Wright and Mayor Morrison would like to again discuss with Scott Niswonger the future of the former bank building he owns next door to the courthouse.
COURTHOUSE FRONT PORCH
Wright told the committee work to repair the front porch of the courthouse, a portion of which is closed due to damage, will begin December 1st and should take about two weeks to complete. During that time those entering the courthouse will do so via the handicap access path. Funding for that improvement will come from a $500,000 state grant. Those monies can not be used for the construction of the new addition, but the mayor says the estimated $1.3 million price tag could be paid through general debt service, without impacting the county tax rate.
WHAT’S NEXT
The committee will meet again to formulate a more detailed plan for presentation to the full County Commission to consider prior to it being put out for bids.
