Council behind Tallman House
JANESVILLE--City council members on Thursday pledged during a study session to put every effort into preserving the historical Tallman House, but there are a few conditions attached to that promise.
The physical structure of the building has numerous problems ranging in severity, but council members also were advised to be more proactive about programming at the house.
City Manager Eric Levitt suggested the council form a committee similar to the neighborhood action team that allows officials from the Rock County Historical Society to discuss operations with council members and citizens.
Among the major problems is a roof badly in need of replacement, mortar worn away by decades of rain and snow and intricate woodwork rotted away.
One of the projects deemed an immediate priority has already been repaired. The city paid $9,000 to stabilize and repair the house’s privy wall foundation. The project was estimated to cost $32,000 in the original report.
The study’s cost estimates are for the highest level of craftsmanship and historical value, but Donahue said it is likely individual projects could cost less than the projected amounts.
Several members, including council President Bill Truman, advocated for an immediate plan to repair the roof, but the council also agreed a business plan for the house is a necessary tool going forward.
Aug 28, 2009 at 1:35 p.m.
Suggest removal
That is a good move!! We have nothing else left in Janesville, so we might as well attract tourist with one building. Boy, that should make a bunch of money!
Aug 28, 2009 at 12:13 p.m.
Suggest removal
Let's hope they do it in accordance with the historical society guidelines.
Aug 28, 2009 at 11:27 a.m.
Suggest removal
Yet come winter the city will be standing with turned out pockets claiming they can't afford to plow and salt the streets. Funny how government always finds a way to spend money on projects like this but not for "boring" stuff like road maintenance.
Aug 28, 2009 at 10:28 a.m.
Suggest removal
It's important to keep the exterior in good condition, now and moving forward. The damage done once weather and water start to penetrate can be tremendous.
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I think the liaison committee is a good idea. It could incorporate other stakeholders such as Forward Janesville, the Janesville and Jeffris Foundations, and the visitors bureau, and ways to better promote the house to tourists and as a memorable symbol of Janesville need to be considered.
Aug 28, 2009 at 10:08 a.m.
Suggest removal
Well done, Council. Thank you.
Aug 28, 2009 at 7:51 a.m.
Suggest removal
Its about time Janesville starts taking care of its buildings.
Aug 28, 2009 at 7:12 a.m.
Suggest removal
Council behind Tallman House
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Someone should have taken them behind the woodshed long ago, but I guess this will have to do.
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