City Seal Removal, Stabilization, Assessment & Restoration

The City of Ellsworth is soliciting proposals from qualified historic preservation contractors and conservation firms for the phased removal, stabilization, assessment, and restoration of the 91-year-old hand-carved wooden City Hall Seal Pediment. Solicitation 2026-REQ-008, posted on September 23, 2026, with a response deadline of November 27, 2026, requires all work to be performed in accordance with the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties and accepted standards for the preservation of historic wood. The project is managed by the Facilities department, with Roddy Ehrlenbach serving as the primary point of contact. The project is structured in two principal phases, beginning with Phase 1, which focuses on the safe removal of the Seal from the City Hall gable. This initial phase includes pre-removal inspection, the development of a rigging plan, site protection, controlled disassembly, and the identification and mapping of all components. The contractor must transport the Seal to a secure, climate-monitored environment for gradual moisture equilibration and professional condition assessment. A comprehensive Condition and Assessment Report must be produced to provide recommendations and specifications for Phase 2 conservation and restoration. No permanent alterations or repairs are permitted during Phase 1 without written authorization from the City. Final reinstallation must utilize appropriate materials and anchoring systems to ensure long-term preservation.