Edward River Council Mayor Norm Brennan said a recommendation on which of the contractors is preferred was taken to its May ordinary meeting, but a decision will not be made until further research has been conducted.
‘‘We have had six contractors, including a few local companies apply which is great to see as it is a big job,’’ he said.
‘‘The figures each contractor has quoted for the job looks good, so we do expect to be on budget for this project.
‘‘A recommendation went to the last council meeting, but councillors had further questions in regard to the tender.
‘‘So, it was decided to defer a decision on the recommendation until staff answer them and put it back in.
‘‘We expect it to be revisited at our June meeting.’’
Cr Brennan said the works will drastically improve the appearance of both buildings.
‘‘Once it is restored, it will be a beautiful monument with a great presence and both staff and councillors are really looking forward to these works taking place,’’ he said.
The Estates building will house a new council chambers, reception area and other meeting rooms.
The demountable administration office installed adjacent the building in 2016 will be relocated to Edward River Council’s north Deniliquin depot, and replaced with a public courtyard.
The original council offices which front Civic Place at the rear of the Estates building will also be completely refurbished in two stages.
Initially, a foyer and staff room will be built on the ground floor with offices and staff areas upstairs to be rebuilt in stage two.
Stage one is to be fully funded through the 2019-20 budget provision of $2.1 million.
Stage two is not yet funded. Its $1.4 million price tag in expected to be considered in the 2020 Long Term Financial Plan.
At the town hall, $1.7 million will be spent on stages one and two to allow for the refurbishment of the existing town hall and foyer, office, ticket/cloak room and minor works to the meeting room.
Stage three would then fund the upgrade and sound proofing of the meeting room areas, external painting, relocation of the toilets and construction of a new foyer and lobby area that provides external access to the side of the town hall and ensures access for all abilities.
Stage four will renovate the change rooms and under stage areas.
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