Remodeling work is moving forward on the old county courthouse while county officials continue to tackle the building's financial matters.
Deputy County Attorney Guy Burningham told the County Commission Wednesday that action is under way to refund the bonds issued for remodeling the courthouse. He said once the bonds are refunded, the lien on the building should be released.The original bond limited the type of agencies that could lease space in the building. Because most prospective tenants did not meet the criteria, the county decided to return the money and find alternative financing.
Burningham also said the county should have no problem using about $1 million in bond assurance funds for remodeling purposes. If bond insurers don't allow the assurance money to be spent on the courthouse, the county can use the money for other capital projects, which would free up those funds.
Clyde Naylor, county engineer, announced that the Forest Service is considering leasing the entire second floor. The Utah County Travel Council, Rep. Bill Orton, D-Utah, and the Justice Court have committed to lease part of the building. Naylor said negotiations are continuing with Sen. Orrin Hatch, R-Utah, and Sen. Jake Garn, R-Utah. Other possible tenants are the Orem/Provo Chamber of Commerce, the March of Dimes and Mountainlands Association of Governments.