Aladdin hall to get a makeover

The Aladdin Community Hall is set to receive a full makeover courtesy of the Aladdin Homemakers. The group has been maintaining the building for a while but, said Sheila Burggraff last week, it’s time for some major repairs and renovations.

Burggraff, who spoke with the county commissioners on Wednesday to request permission to go ahead with the improvements. A donor has come forward to cover the cost of new windows, she said, and the community of Aladdin has donated approximately half of the $3200 estimated cost to replace the siding and a contractor has offered to donate his time for some of the necessary work.

The full cost of the renovation is not yet known, however. Burggraff explained that the building used to be a schoolhouse and is old enough to not have running water, so it’s impossible to be sure until work begins what might be hiding behind the walls.

Burggraff asked for information about the money set aside for maintenance of polling stations, which could potentially be used to cover some of the electrical work. She also asked if it will be possible for county maintenance staff to assist.

“We need to get all on the same page…to see what we’re going to be able to do,” she said.

Maintenance Foreman Larry Schommer confirmed that he will be happy to assist with and oversee the project. Commissioner Jeanne Whalen added that a donor has stepped forward to offer $4500 for the project, with the simple stipulation that work be completed within a year.

Next steps will include securing the help of an electrician to inspect the building and give an estimate of the work needed. The commissioners granted approval for the project to begin, with funds to be directed through the county clerk, and Whalen offered kudos to the Homemakers for their willingness to take care of the building and ensure it remains usable for the community.