MECCA — After bids came in more than 20% higher than the engineer’s estimate for a new township hall, trustees plan to rebid the project.

Trustee Christen Clemson said at Tuesday’s meeting she has reached out to both the county planning commission and the county commissioners about the proposed project. She said the project has not yet been rebid, but was informed by county officials that three contractors have asked to see the bid package.

Fiscal Officer Beverly Lytle said the township was informed by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources that an extension has been granted to June 2027 in the $98,000 reimbursement grant for the project.

Trustees have reviewed drawings and plans for the construction of the new township hall that also would house a preschool.

Trustee Chairman Tom Domes said previously the township has $532,471 to spend on the project, which includes the $98,000 from the ODNR capital improvement budget, $175,000 in American Rescue Plan funds from the Trumbull County commissioners and $259,400 from the township.

Clemson said trustees also plan to seek $15,000 in federal funds to help with the project.

The bids for the building originally went out in March and were received on April 3.

Clemson said the septic project will need to be addressed first and then the building since the Environmental Protection Agency also has to approve the project.

Trustees have shown residents drawings of the building’s exterior and interior layout. The town hall will have a dark gray roof and light gray siding.

While the township hall will be constructed between the pavilion and garage, the septic system will be located near the basketball court.

When the town hall is done, there will be an area for an Alta daycare/preschool to be used weekdays during the school year. The town hall will be able to be rented with fees to cover costs for upkeep of the building.

Trustees said LED lights and electronic locks and access will be used in the building.

Dimes said there is also a focus on security for the building.

He said any funds not used will be for equipping the town hall with tables and chairs. Trustees said they will be able to have their meetings in the new building. Meetings now are held at the fire department.

Also, trustees are discussing possibly placing a fire/emergency medical service levy on a future ballot. Trustees have taken no official action and plan to gather more information on levy options for more discussion at the next trustees meeting in June.