09/02/2026
Additional update: The contractors are ordering a boom lift to be able to remove the metal pieces and cover the open places on the Bell Tower. They will also need to get a permit from the state to close the intersection.
It's time for an update on the restoration. We had another front page story in the Herald Banner on Tuesday. Thanks, Travis Hairgrove for the follow up story.
There has been another round of criticism on social media. We have chosen to not respond.
The structural engineer and our architect said that the building is in very good shape structurally. The only damage from the storms in 2023 was what was blown out or blown in. Yes we are getting a new roof, we have some work to do on the Bell Tower to replace the sheathing before the decorative metal pieces can be replaced. Again, all of the windows have been repaired where needed. Our contractors want to keep the windows boarded up until the roof work is completed, so the windows will not be damaged.
There has been criticism that things are not happening in a timely manner. You don't go down to the local big box home improvement store to buy supplies.
Our sandstone that needs to be replaced is not the more common pink sandstone, it's yellow sandstone. We have three different shades of mortar used in the brickwork. Mortar that is used on this type of building is very different from what is used today. Our contractors are having to source specific brick without holes to restore the brickwork.
These are just a few examples of why the restoration of a historical building takes time. We have the best craftspersons that specialize in historical buildings. We are taking the time to do this properly.
We would appreciate your prayers. This is a big endeavor. We have plans to serve our community when the restoration is completed. There are many needs that we will strive to meet to serve our neighbors.