There has been a lot of conversations around both the Region Bank building and the Clinton County Courthouse about possible changes coming to both next year.
Recently, the Clinton County Commissioners approved a renovation plan for the inside and outside of the Courthouse plus a tear down and rebuild on the Regions Bank which will include a new third floor for expansion.
“What was approved was a 41,000 square foot three story facility that would roughly be $16.7 million,” said Commissioners President Jordan Brewer. “The comparison that needs to be made is the renovation of the current structure to what a new structure would be. And the renovation at the floor, bottom dollar, was going to be $12.1 million.”
Brewer added the cost would probably be higher than the $12.1 million due to hidden issues that can’t be seen until the building is opened up and construction begins. The building has been beset with asbestos and mold issues.
When it comes to the courthouse, Brewer said the situation has become a have-to case rather than just wanting to do something.
“We’ll have close to 30 people moving over to the new annex as well as getting some of the county offices that are in Old Stoney,” said Brewer. “We want them all under one roof and to provide more synergy at those offices.”
Brewer added the courthouse renovation is $10 million and added space on the fourth floor and attic has been eaten up by files that are in storage thus causing issues with too much weight being on the floors.