Facelift for town hall, former school

It was transformed in the 1970s, but it still has its shortcomings. This point hasn't been lost on Danbury trustees, who at their Oct. 23 meeting agreed to advertise bids for a township hall remodel. "It's time we bring it up to speed," trustee David Hirt said. "It's not handicap-accessible. We need to change that and bring it into the 21st century." In addition to making the building accessible to disabled visitors, there are a variety of other improvements needed. The heating, ventilation and air conditioning will be upgraded, the windows will be replaced, and new insulation will be added, Hirt said. The floor will also be fixed to make it more level, and the interior floor plan will be adjusted. Trustees plant to start reviewing bids prior to the Nov. 20 meeting. Bodner & Kerik Architects, of Sandusky, are expected to bid on the project, Hirt said. "It's time to do something about this," trustee Dianne Rozak said. "We'd like to make it warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. Time has taken its toll on the building." Rozak said the project's timetable has yet to be established. "It's dependent on the architects we choose and their plan," Rozak said. "But I'd imagine it would start as soon as possible." The project is estimated to cost about $251,00, covered by the township's general fund. Danbury's annual budget is about $4.1 million, Rozak said. Danbury Township has more than 20 employees, in addition to the four elected officials. Township hall is occupied by employees in zoning, finances, administration, safety services and roads, and there is also a public meeting room. Hirt said the project's first phase will include a renovation of work spaces, restrooms and storage. The meeting room renovation will come after the preliminary phase.