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Drafty windows and doors, an out-of-commission steam boiler, and an energy-inefficient roof. Those are among the reasons the Calumet Theatre and village office complex are losing heat each winter.
The energy study conducted by U.P. Engineers and Architects was presented to the Calumet village council last night. The report did highlight some positive elements of the complex’s heat envelope. The sandstone walls help regulate the interior temperature year-round. And, while much of the building’s energy loss occurs through the roof, that heat melts snow in the winter, helping to reduce the snow load.
The report also indicated areas where additional study will be needed. Deeper research will be required to analyze the building’s current heating systems, including the effect they have on the acoustics of the theatre. It also recommends that a full structural analysis be undertaken. The village hall section of the complex was built in 1886. The theatre was added in 1900.
The initial report was paid for by the Keweenaw National Historical Park. It’s hoped that the park may be able to fund the additional research, as well.
In other news from last evening’s council meeting…
• Patricia Pressel was appointed as village clerk. She will fill the role until the November election.
• The council approved an immediate demolition of 411 8th Street, waiving the permit’s waiting period. Village manager Amber Goodman is continuing to work on identifying blight throughout the village.
• The 9th Street paving project was approved. Calumet Township may help with the cost, as there are areas of shared responsibility for the street along the border between the township and the village.
Calumet’s insurance inspector has suggested the fire department’s pumper receive an annual inspection. North Star Services will perform the inspection, while they’re in the area for other fire departments, at a cost of $1,110. Goodman is compiling a list of needed fire department truck repairs.
