Contractors performing upkeep work on Scott County Courthouse

BENTON, Mo. -- It's construction season at the Scott County Courthouse.

As plumbing work was under way on Thursday, commissioners also opened bids for coping and cap joint repairs to the exterior of the building.

Presiding Commissioner Jamie Burger said all the repairs are needed to preserve a building as old as the courthouse.

"These dollars spent, over a period of years, are vital to the courthouse staying in the shape we have it in right now," he said. "We always hate to spend any money around here, but at the same time, we don't want it to get in the shape it was in 15 years ago. So, we set aside a certain amount of money every year for repairs, upkeep and modernization."

The lone bid for the coping and cap joint repairs was submitted by Milam Masonry and Contracting. Following a review of the bid, commissioners voted to accept it.

The bid calls for the repairs, removing the old joint sealant and replacing it with new, touch up painting, all materials and a lift to complete the work. Milam Masonry and Contracting said that, if the county furnishes the paint, it can do the job for $160 per hour in labor -- $40 per hour for four employees -- and the total job is estimated to take about 130 hours.

The total bid breaks down to $20,800 for labor and $1,129.80 for material, with the total bid amount being $21,929.80.

"This is an estimate only," was written on the bid sheet. "A change in the hours or materials will result in a deduction or addition to the price."

Burger noted the repairs are needed to keep water seepage and damages that would follow to a minimum.

He said work will begin as soon as possible, weather permitting. "Those lifts are very heavy and the ground is wet, so I don't want to tear up the lawn," said Burger.

Commissioner Dennis Ziegenhorn said he's glad to see that local contractors from Scott County are able to complete the work.

S&L Builders is now busy doing some minor repairs to the courthouse. That bid was approved earlier this month.

"I think the biggest thing is that, for the first time since the courthouse was built, we will have hot water in the bathrooms." said Burger.

Additionally, a door is being modified in the courtroom as an emergency exit for the judges.

With all the changes, Burger assured the commission is working to ensure the integrity and look of the decades-old courthouse.

"We are making sure that these things are hidden," he said. "When you walk into the room, it will look just like it did before the improvements were made."

Pertinent address:

131 S Winchester, Benton, MO