Council splits on City Hall plan; gives staff direction to pursue options and solicit bids

Lock Haven’s council spent the bulk of the meeting debating how to address long-standing deficiencies at City Hall, including an actively leaking roof, window replacements, ADA compliance work and larger HVAC and renovation needs.

Staff presented a range of options and cost estimates: a focused package for roof, windows and code/ADA work was presented at roughly $1.5 million; previous estimates cited mechanical work at about $1.1 million and electrical at $1.3 million, and a later HVAC figure was discussed at $1.7 million. Council members disagreed about whether to disaggregate the work (repair only the roof immediately) or pursue a consolidated renovation or replacement. One council member argued that fixing the roof immediately is critical to stop further deterioration; another warned that piecemeal spending could waste scarce funds if the city later sells or relocates from the building.

In the course of debate, one council member moved to direct staff to pursue the Hope House/Police Station consolidation project (described in the meeting as the '2d' option), arguing the combined project would address needs of multiple departments. That motion was seconded and went to a roll-call vote. The motion passed with a split vote; several members voted no, including the mayor. Council clarified that the direction to staff does not guarantee project execution or funding—rather, it authorizes further study and negotiation.

Council also directed staff to solicit bids for immediate replacement work (roof and windows) so short-term repairs can proceed while longer-term options are analyzed.

Why it matters: The council’s choice of approach will determine capital spending priorities, potential staffing relocations, and whether the historic City Hall will be retained, renovated or sold—decisions that carry long-term budgetary and operational consequences.

What’s next: Staff will solicit RFPs/bids for roof and window work and further develop the Hope House/Police Station plan for council review, including refined cost estimates and funding options.