$1.3 million renovation of Highland City Hall is ahead of schedule

The renovation of Highland City Hall is running a little bit ahead of schedule.

Earlier this month, city manager Chris Conrad reported that they have begun hanging drywall in City Hall, which was seriously damaged by broken pipes last winter. So many renovations necessary to combat the flood damage, city leaders have taken the opportunity to update and improve the facility as they rebuild it.

“They have the main area for workers that was really impacted by the flood all framed, and that’s really exciting,” Conrad said. “They got some materials in sooner than expected.”

The project is estimated to be about $1.3 million, which includes a new roof for the entire building that would have been required fairly soon anyway. They’re also replacing 40-year-old windows as they rebuild the flood damage.

“The only thing not in the bid was minor renovations in the council chambers to address some sound issues,” Conrad said.

The wood paneling of the council chambers is not conducive for good sound recordings, or for those attending the meeting remotely, Conrad said. The technology also needs an update.

“Our sound system was piecemeal over the years and separate from our phone and recording systems,” Conrad said.

Since the flood, 11 employees, and one part-time employee have all been working out of the new public safety building. City council meetings have been held at the Highland Area Senior Center on Woodcrest Drive.

“The police department has been gracious to host us all these months, but I think everyone’s anxious to get back to our own home,” Conrad said.“I am working out of what will be the fire chief’s office, and he is working in the sleep room for the EMTs.”