One topic on the agenda for the Hastings City Council to consider were two bids that were submitted for work to be done in the replacement of the roof of the Historic LeDuc estate. A cedar shingle roof along with several unique components of the heritage structure were considered in determining if bidders had adequate experience with this type of project. The two competing companies offered a wildly divergent quote to complete the job. Norse Valley Construction from Chatfield bid $183,750 with the bid offered by Les Jones Roofing from Bloomington coming in at just over $409,000. Another bid was received just seven minutes too late for the allotted deadline. The council was satisfied that the low bidder, Norse Valley, had the credentials and past work reference to be qualified for the task, and the offer was approved. Financing for the project will be aided by the award of a Legacy grant in the amount of $107,550, however, it is stipulated that the city must pay for at least half of the work, $91,875, so not all of the grant will be used. It was not determined how soon the work will get underway.
