The days of outdated electrical wiring in the Pulaski County Courthouse will soon come to an end, as the commissioners this week approved a motion to accept a bid for the second stage of electrical upgrades to the courthouse. Maintenance Director Morry DeMarco presented to the commissioners last night four bids for the electrical work to be reviewed, and after a discussion, the commissioners accepted a bid from Roger’s Electric Company of Medaryville.
DeMarco said each company he approached was given a spec sheet for the work which included a reference to the courthouse’s standing as a historical building, which involves extra work in the bid. DeMarco said Dave Duvall, the historical architect for the Indiana Division of Historic Preservation and Archaeology, informed him that as long as there are no major changes to the courthouse – that is, holes knocked in walls or other disturbances – no permits are required.
However, Duvall did make it a point to emphasize to DeMarco that he would like to see the courthouse restored as best as possible to its historical condition, including chandeliers hanging from the ceiling in some areas as it once was. DeMarco said this was not a requirement – rather, more of a recommendation – and as a result, not a high priority.
KV Electric from Demotte submitted a bid for $81,350 for the work, while Complete Electric from Francesville bid $68,900. Roger’s Electric Company bid $64,870, and Rodale Electric Service bid $74,000. The commissioners unanimously passed a motion to accept the bid from Roger’s Electric Company.
DeMarco mentioned that later in the year, he may seek a grant to install new light fixtures in the courthouse to “go green,” changing all the fluorescent bulbs to the newer, more energy-efficient bulbs.
