Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
WINONA LAKE - The old Quonset hut building will get a face lift and a new look as a result of the town council's approval of a renovation contract Tuesday.
The council awarded the contract for the renovation to D&C Construction, which submitted the lowest and most responsive bid at $392,109. D&C will renovate the structure into a new town government building by reinforcing the slab foundation and constructing the interior of the building to house the city offices and meeting rooms.
Mary Ellen Rudisel, of Scarce & Rudisel Engineering, the firm serving as consultant for the project, recommended the concrete slab foundation over a raised wooden foundation, which tipped the project's cost in favor of D&C.
"I recommend you go with a concrete slab because it costs less and requires fewer other systems that a wood truss system would require," Rudisel said.
Councilwoman Edna Gamble expressed concern about the selection of the Quonset hut as the site for a new town building in light of soil samples saying the site wouldn't be suitable for new construction.
"I have a concern about the soil samples taken. Down the way, if that building starts moving, who's going to be responsible? I don't feel comfortable with the soil under that building," she said.
Rudisel said the soil under the Quonset hut is more than sufficient to support the building for its use as a town hall. The soil composition is sufficient to support a structure with a weight of 500 pounds per square inch. Adding a concrete slab foundation would add an additional 40 pounds per square inch tolerance. The average weight for an office use would be 40 pounds per square inch, she said.
"It's an old building, so I don't think it's going to move anymore," Rudisel said.
In other business, the council approved a $11,600 contract with Lawmaster Brothers Roofing to replace the roof on the Street Department office.
The council also approved an evaluation contract with Liquidforce Inc. for the storm water drainage system in the vicinity of Park Avenue and Boys City Drive.
Finally, the town is looking for volunteers to help plan and work at the town's annual July 4 celebration. Those interested are asked to contact the town clerk's office at 267-5783.
