Council looks at renovation project
A bandshell restoration estimated at close to $300,000 is partially funded if City Council accepts a $150,000 donation from First Community Foundation Partnership.
On Tuesday, council’s finance committee took a first step toward that funding by giving the donation received last week a positive recommendation, which allows council to look at the particulars Thursday night.
Structural repairs are needed to keep the bandshell, built in 1914, safe for spring, summer and fall use, according to Stephanie Young, city community development director.
Councilwoman Liz Miele noted fundraising may need to take place to cover expenses not included in the expected repairs, such as an improved sound system.
Among the projects tagged for repair included the roof, wood floor, brick pointing, interior dome and accessibility requirements, Young said.
In another discussion, the committee heard from William E. Nichols Jr., city finance director. He suggested the scoreboard bids be rejected and a “rebidding” take place. The bidders did not have the qualifications to meet specifications and Nichols said he had a fiduciary responsibility to seek lower bids. The range was $525,000 to $675,000, he said.
The scoreboard is aimed to be installed before the opening of the Williamsport Crosscutters’ first home game in June, Nichols said. The scoreboard is paid for through a state Redevelopment Assistance Capital Projects grant from the Office of Budget, he said. Matches for the grant are secured and can be assisted through River Valley Transit taking out a line of credit if needed, he said.