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used effectively. They even looked at taking down the 2 ells that <br />were added on either side and keeping the core of the courthouse <br />building, which is really the historical part. So, it is a <br />decision of whether it is historically important enough to save. <br />They do not feel the Courthouse is a significant architectural <br />building. It may have historical significance for Indian River <br />County, and maybe the Historical Society could be convinced that <br />the building would make a great museum. Perhaps there are other <br />non-profitentities that; could afford to work in some joint <br />participation with the County to rent space in that structure. <br />Commissioner Bird agreed that the existing courthouse would <br />not serve as a courts facility any longer, but he was dedicated to <br />trying to preserve that building for use of some sort. He pointed <br />out how we renovated this building, which was originally a <br />hospital, into administrative offices, and wondered if there was <br />any possibility of going higher with the annex, and possibly <br />building a twin tower behind the front core of the present <br />Courthouse. <br />Mr. Reeves advised that the proposed building would have to <br />be 4 or 5 stories in order to accommodate all the space needs. He <br />pointed out that he failed to say that the land acquisition costs <br />are included in the total cost. <br />Chairman Scurlock felt that what he was hearing today is that <br />the Commissioners have a desire to explore all the possibilities <br />to retain some part of the present Courthouse because of its <br />historical significance, even while realizing the problems with <br />the flat roof, the extensive mildew, and water coming in at the <br />base of the walls. <br />Commissioner Bird agreed we should plan ahead for the future, <br />but worried about the County's indebtedness on present capital <br />improvements. He asked if there has been some sort of a financial <br />analysis done on the priorities of the proposed capital <br />improvements, such as the new Courthouse, the Health Building, the <br />new libraries, various recreation projects, etc. <br />21 BOOK 75 E GE 119 <br />NOV 8 1988 <br />