Marion County officials learned earlier this week that the project to replace the roof on the Marion County Courthouse won the Mississippi Associated Builders & Contractors, 2017 Excellence in Construction Gold Award.
Board President Calvin Newsom read a letter from Mary G. Dodge, vice president and CAO from Mandal’s Inc. Roofing and Sheet Metal of Gulfport, the project’s contractor.
“Our company won the Gold 2017 Excellence in Construction Award under the category of Historical Restoration for our completion of the roofing and sheet metal work on the Marion County Courthouse,” Dodge’s letter reads. “As part of our award, separate awards are also given to the owner and architect for their commitment to excellence.”
Newsome and Architect Steve Cox accepted the awards Monday. Cox was on hand to update the Board on the completion of the project. Newsome spoke briefly about the award.
“It is an honor to be recognized for this project,” he said.
Crews from Mandal’s began work last spring and spent the summer completing the project. Mandal’s bid on the work was $473,890, which was less than the bids of two other companies, whose bids came in at more than $650,000 apiece. The work replaced original tiles on the roof and repaired copper flashing and sealed leaks. Many of the tiles on the courthouse roof were from its construction in 1905.
Roof leak problems had been discussed by the Board since the summer of 2015, when Circuit Clerk Janette Nolan brought to light many leaks that affected offices and the circuit courtroom.
County officials borrowed the nearly $500,000 to pay for the work, which will be paid back by 2021. The first payment is due in March 2018. A grant of $147,000 from the Mississippi Department of Archives and History will help cover the costs.
The award, a sculpture with a golden eagle on it, will be displayed at the Board offices or at the Marion County Courthouse.
“On behalf of Chris Cooper, the management and employees of Mandal’s Inc., we want to thank you for allowing us to perform this work,” Dodge concluded in her letter. “Without your commitment, cooperation and assistance, Mandal’s Inc. would not have won this prestigious award.”
The Marion County Board of Supervisors will next meet in regular session on Dec. 18 at its offices on Courthouse Square.
Pictured Above: Workers from Mandal’s Inc. are seen working on the Marion County Courthouse roof earlier this year. The project won a major award for the company and the county. | Submitted Photo
