H1. Conrad Mansion Hist Grant Public HearingCITY OF
KALISPELL
MEMORANDUM
To: Doug Russell, City Manager
Cc: Jarod Nygren, Director of Planning
From: Katharine King, Community Development
Re: Public Hearing on Conrad Mansion Museum Montana Historic
Preservation Grant Application
Meeting Date: April 6, 2020
BACKGROUND: The Conrad Mansion Museum (CMM) is a City of Kalispell owned property
which is operated as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization under the direction of a volunteer board
of directors. The CMM has applied for $36,000 in funding through the Montana Department of
Commerce, Montana Historic Preservation Grant Program for the purpose of bringing the historic
Charles E. Conrad family home up to current building code requirements for electrical wiring. Per
the grant application:
In 1975, Alicia Conrad Campbell, the youngest daughter of Charles and Alicia Conrad, donated her family's
magnificent late nineteenth century home and its contents to the City of Kalispell, in memory of her parents and in
tribute to their pioneering, entrepreneurial, and philanthropic spirit. The Conrad Mansion Museum is a popular
attraction for visitors of all ages and interests. A tour through this well preserved late 19th century home is appealing
to Montana's high value niche segment visitors which include family travelers, history buffs, and mature adults. The
2017 ITRR non-resident travel survey report for Kalispell indicated that 26% of visitors enjoy historical sites.
Approximately 7,000 visitors tour the Conrad Mansion each year. In addition to tour schedules which run from
May -October, the Mansion is a venue for year-round events such as a 4th of July Ice Cream Social, Ghost Tours,
Christmas Teas and Tours, historical clothing tours, and school tours.
The Conrad Mansion Museum is requesting funding through the Montana Historic Preservation Grant Program to
preserve and update the museum's infrastructure through the replacement of outdated electrical wiring. The Conrad
Mansion's original wiring was installed in 1895 and it was one of the first structures in the Flathead Valley to have
electricity. Although the Conrad Mansion's electrical system was considered innovative in the 1890s, the Conrad
Mansion is still using a majority of this very system 125 years later.
The Conrad Mansion operates on original cloth wiring, mica knob and tube, crumbling porcelain insulators, and melted
and warped contacts, which are exposed and are a safety hazard to staff and contractors. Over the last century, the
wiring has aged, and various sections have been repaired, often without professional expertise, the result being a
convoluted and chaotic mess of wire from various decades. Other issues associated with the wiring include electrical
boxes being placed dangerously close to the gas main, which is a major fire hazard.
REQUESTED ACTION: Hold public hearing to gather public comment on the Conrad Mansion
Museum grant application to the Montana Historic Preservation Grant Program.
FISCAL EFFECTS: If awarded grant funding, the Montana Historic Preservation Grant will fund
proposed project. No funding is requested of the City of Kalispell.
ALTERNATIVES: As suggested and approved by the City Council.
ATTACHMENTS: Conrad Mansion Museum application to Montana Historic Preservation
Grant program.
201 1' Avenue E IPhone (406)758-7730
PO BOX 1997 Planning Department Fax (406)758-7739
Kalispell, MT 59903 1 1 www.kalispell.com
MHPG Application Section I.
1. Applicant: Brit Clark
2. Property Owner (if different from applicant): City of Kalispell
3. Authorized Representative of Applicant: Brit Clark Title: Museum Director
Address: 330 Woodland Avenue City: Kalispell Zip Code: 59901
Phone: 406-755-2166 E-mail: info@conradmansion.com
4. Primary Contact: Brit Clark Title: Museum Director
Address: 330 Woodland Avenue City: Kalispell Zip Code: 59901
Phone: 406-212-9788 E-mail: brit@conradmansion.com
5. Project Type: Please select one type under the appropriate eligible project type
Historic Site: ❑ Infrastructure ❑ Maintenance 0 Building Code Issue
❑ Security ❑ Climate Control ❑ Fire Protection
Historical Society: ❑ Infrastructure ❑ Maintenance ❑ Building Code Issue
❑ Security ❑ Climate Control ❑ Fire Protection
History Museum: ❑ Infrastructure ❑ Maintenance ❑ Building Code Issue
❑ Security ❑ Climate Control ❑ Fire Protection
5. Grant Funding Request Information
6. Project Address:
Amount Requested: $36000
Physical Address: 330 Woodland Avenue
Total Amount of Leverage: $0
City: Kalispell, MT 59901
Total Project Cost: 36000
7. Funding Sources
Type of Funds
Amount
Status of
Rates and Terms (if
Commitment (provide
applicable)
documentation as
applicable)
MT Historic Preservation
Grant
36000
NA
NA
Grant
Montana Department of Commerce I Montana Historic Preservation Grant Program
2020 Application and Guidelines
8. Brief Description of current project and proposed solution or activity to be completed
a. Background and project (please provide narrative response):
In 1975, Alicia Conrad Campbell, the youngest daughter of Charles and Alicia Conrad, donated her family's
magnificent late nineteenth century home and its contents to the City of Kalispell, in memory of her parents and in
tribute to their pioneering, entrepreneurial, and philanthropic spirit. The Conrad Mansion Museum is a popular
attraction for visitors of all ages and interests. A tour through the this well preserved late 19t" century home is appealing
to Montana's high value niche segment visitors which include family travelers, history buffs, and mature adults. The
2017 ITRR non-resident travel survey report for Kalispell indicated that 26% of visitors enjoy historical sites.
Approximately 7,000 visitors tour the Conrad Mansion each year. In addition to tour schedules which run from May -
October, the Mansion is a venue for year-round events such as a 4t" of july Ice Cream Social, Ghost Tours, Christmas
Teas and Tours, historical clothing tours, and school tours. The Conrad Mansion also serves as a unique venue for
weddings, meetings, and conventions.
The Conrad Mansion Museum is requesting funding through the Montana Historic Preservation Grant Program to
preserve and update the museum's infrastructure through the replacement of e outdated electrical wiring. The Conrad
Mansion's original wiring was installed in 1895 and it was one of the first structures in the Flathead Valley to have
electricity. Although the Conrad Mansion's electrical system was considered innovative in the 1890s, the Conrad
Mansion is still using a majority of this very system 125 years later.
The Conrad Mansion operates on original cloth wiring, mica knob and tube, crumbling porcelain insulators, and
melted and warped contacts, which are exposed and are a safety hazard to staff and contractors. Over the last century,
the wiring has aged, and various sections have been repaired, often without professional expertise, the result being a
convoluted and chaotic mess of wire from various decades. Other issues associated with the wiring include electrical
boxes being placed dangerously close to the gas main, which is a major fire hazard. The Conrad Mansion's tours are also
affected by fuses constantly blowing out in various rooms, a result of high amperage use that was not originally planned
for in the design (note: the house was also designed to run on gas lighting to accompany the electricity).
b. Description of proposed solution (please provide narrative response):
Since the Conrad Mansion not only has to be safe, it has to provide educational and accurate tours as it is self -
supported and relies on daily tours for operational funds. With 90% of the furnishings in the home being original to the
Conrad family, it is critical that the wiring replacement project tie in directly with the original look to continue to
preserve this important historical site for years to come. With this proposed project, the original 19t" century wiring and
fixtures will still be on display inside the Conrad Mansion, albeit disconnected and replaced with modern Montana
building code -regulated wiring, which will be out of view from visitors.
The Conrad Mansion also depends on funding through community and private events. These outdoor events are
held on the Conrad Mansion's grounds and they rely on the Mansion's electrical breakers to power their event. With this
project, the Mansion will provide a consistent power stream to its outdoor venue, ensuring a successful and lucrative
event for the Conrad Mansion.
This electrical wiring project would allow the Conrad Mansion to be up to modern Montana fire safety building
codes and after installing a new 200-amp panel, the Conrad Mansion would no longer be violating fire code, as the new
electrical panel would be more than three feet away from the gas line supplying the house. First priority is safety of
visitors, volunteers and staff as well as preservation of this historic house. Also, the Conrad Mansion hires contractors as
needed for various museum building needs and with this proposed wiring project, contractors would be guaranteed a
safe work environment as they navigate the building. Antiquated wiring presents a real threat to all.
Montana Department of Commerce 2 Montana Historic Preservation Grant Program
2020 Application and Guidelines
This project will allow the Conrad Mansion to continue providing tourists and community members with an
authentic glimpse into 19t" century Montana life through the installation of code regulated wiring, which provides the
museum's building with fire safety and general operations safety of a degraded electrical system.
9. Certification to Submit:
The undersigned authorized representative hereby certifies that (a) the information set forth in this application is
correct to the best of his/her knowledge; (b) s/he has received, read, and understood these guidelines and agrees to
comply with all requirements; (c) the elected officials of the local government have formally authorized the submittal of
this application, as applicable; (d) s/he has the authority to act on behalf of the applicant in submitting this application,
and (e) agrees to comply with all applicable state or federal laws and statutes associated with carrying out the project.
�Ovz'
2/17/2020
Signature
Montana Department of Commerce
2020
Date
Brit Clark, Museum Director
Printed Name and Title
Montana Historic Preservation Grant Program
Application and Guidelines
MHPG Application Section II.
Applicants are required to provide narrative responses to each of the statutory criteria, unless otherwise specifically
permitted.
STATUTORY CRITERIA - A up to 150 in Possible Points
The degree to which a project supports economic stimulus or economic activity, including job creation
and work creation for Montana contractors and service workers.
As applicable to the proposed project, address the following in your response:
1. Describe how your project will have an economic impact in the following areas:
• job creation for Montana contractors, service workers, and other related jobs;
• local economy and;
• increased tourism.
The electrical wiring project will have a positive economic impact on the local economy by creating specialized
electrician construction jobs for local contractors for 4-6 months. The electrical wiring project will stimulate the local
economy by providing historical and entertaining tours which appeal to locals and out of area visitors. The electrical
wiring project will increase tourism through the maintenance of the museum's infrastructure as well as keeping the
museum as authentic as possible. The museum will remain safe for visitors while increasing guest satisfaction which
results in positive online reviews and higher visitation. Higher visitation means increased revenue for tours, special
events, and gift shop sales.
Destruction by faulty electrical systems is a very real threat to properties of 19th century construction. The loss of
the Conrad Mansion to preventable causes would be a dereliction of duty to protect and preserve this historic gem for
future generations.
2. Describe how your project relates to community goals and previous or concurrent planning efforts (downtown
revitalization plan, growth policy, historic preservation plan, economic development strategy, etc.).
Core Area Plan adopted by City Council December 2012
Supporting the Core and Rail Redevelopment Project funded by US DOT TIGER grant October 2015
Downtown Historic Design Standards Development project funded by MDOC February 2020
STATUTORY CRITERIA - B up to 200 in Possible Points
The degree to which the project activity can demonstrate the purpose and need. This includes the
relevancy of whether the project activity provides features that establish or enhance security, climate
control, or fire protection for museums or address infrastructure, maintenance, or building code issues for
museums, historical societies, or historic sites.
As applicable to the proposed project, address the following in your response:
Montana Department of Commerce 4 Montana Historic Preservation Grant Program
2020 Application and Guidelines
1. Describe the current use and condition of the historic resource.
The Conrad Mansion is currently in use as a historic house museum. With over 7,000 visitors per year, the
Conrad Mansion serves as a historic and educational landmark in the Flathead Valley. With over 90% of the
original collection on site and a beautifully restored building and grounds, the Conrad Mansion is in good
condition. However, at 125 years old, common building materials and practices of the time, particularly a
deteriorating electrical wiring system creates significant danger to the structure and anyone inside.
2. Describe the deficiency the proposed project will address and how this has impacted the historic
resource. Please also explain the duration of time the deficiency has existed.
The proposed project will address replacement of the antiquated electrical wiring which has put the Museum at
risk for fire and an unpredictable wiring system that results in frequent blown light fixtures and fuses during the
Museum's summer and Christmas events. The current wiring system has also put Museum staff and contractors
at risk for injury do to exposed wiring.
The deficiency has existed since the 1890s and has been repaired numerous times in the last 125 years.
Restoration began in the 1970s, wherein only pieces were repaired to contemporary code, which do not
compare with modern fire safety code requirements. Breakers installed in the 1970's frequently blow and
cannot handle the amperage of modern appliances such as HVAC which poses a fire risk.
3. Describe how the proposed project will address the identified deficiency.
The proposed project will address the identified deficiency by replacing the basement panel with a 200-amp
service which includes new complete systems. The project will replace the fuse panel with new 100-amp sub
panel, which includes new breakers, wiring and junction boxes. The project will address the exterior issues by
installing a new 200-amp main panel with overhead feed which provides 3-foot clearance from the gas line
entering the museum and installing new conduit and feeder wires to an existing sub panel in the basement. The
project will also install two new circuits for exterior maintenance shops, which includes trenching new lines for
safety (note: existing system runs on extension cords). The new installations will provide ease of access for
future electricians and the Museum's maintenance staff.
4. Describe how receiving MHPG funding will enable proper completion of the proposed project and
enable the long-term financial stability of the resource.
By receiving MHPG funding, the Conrad Mansion will fund the complete proposed project. Funding from MHPG
will enable the Conrad Mansion protect the property for the future.
S. Describe how the proposed project was selected and prioritized in relation to plans to preserve
and maintain the historic resource.
The Conrad Mansion recognizes that the safety of its visitors, staff, and contractors is of critical importance and
that exposed wiring creates a dangerous situation. The Conrad Mansion is a 125-year-old historic landmark and
exposed wiring and blown fuses are confirmed fire hazards. With over 90% of the Conrad Family's original
collection on site, a fire would be devastating to the Museum and its collection.
The Conrad Mansion includes a third -floor crawl -space attic that is currently unsuitable for storage because of
the exposed cloth wiring. By replacing the wiring and bringing it up to code, the Conrad Mansion will then plan
for a climate -controlled space which will serve storage needs.
Montana Department of Commerce 5 Montana Historic Preservation Grant Program
2020 Application and Guidelines
STATUTORY CRITERIA - C up to 150 in Possible Points
The degree to which timing of the project can be completed without delay, including access to matching
funds and approval of permits, if needed.
As applicable to the proposed project, address the following in your response:
1. Describe the organization's capacity and ability to complete the proposed project in a timely
manner.
The capacity and ability to complete the proposed project in a timely manner aligns with the mission of the
Conrad Mansion which is to preserve and exhibit the 1895 Charles Conrad Family Estate through public tours,
educational programs, and community events. The Conrad Mansion ensures its 7,000+ yearly visitors a safe and
un-interrupted tour of the Museum. The proposed project will have a 3-4-month construction window, during
the Conrad Mansion's shoulder season or "off-season" (January -May) wherein tours will not be interrupted, and
no tour revenue will be lost to the Conrad Mansion.
2. Describe the status and availability of all matching funds needed to complete the proposed
project.
We would accept any help available, but matching funding will inevitably push this project back indefinitely until
the funding gap could be resolved. We are a non-profit receiving no public funding, so we rely on grants,
donations, tours, and fundraisers to complete the proposed project.
3. Describe how receipt of MHPG funding will enable the ability to leverage additional funding such
as grants, loans, and Historic Tax Credits.
Receipt of MHPG funding will enable the Conrad Mansion to leverage additional funding through other grant
sources because the replacement of outdated cloth wiring and fixtures via MHPG program will create a code -
regulated building in which other contractor assigned projects, such as the restoration of the porch and the
rehabilitation of the office flooring, can be done quickly, efficiently, and safely.
4. Describe any potential timeline considerations that are related to permits, environmental
considerations or related activities to complete the proposed project.
The project would best be completed off-season when there are no daily tours or special events. Ideally January -
May, 2021. The Conrad Mansion is working with full -staffed electricians and our caretaker, who are aware of
time constraints.
STATUTORY CRITERIA - D up to 250 in Possible Points
The degree to which the project activity contributes historic or heritage value related to the state of
Montana.
As applicable to the proposed project, address the following in your response:
1. Describe the historical context and significance of the historic resource associated with the
proposed project including:
o Heritage value related to the state of Montana;
o the value of the resource to the local community; and
o any relevant designations or listings.
On the advice of James J. Hill, Civil War veteran, Charles Conrad helped found the City of Kalispell in 1891 after selling
his lucrative, Fort Benton -based shipping and mercantile company to the Hudson Bay Company earlier that year. Charles
Montana Department of Commerce 6 Montana Historic Preservation Grant Program
2020 Application and Guidelines
Conrad accurately predicted that the Great Northern Railroad, which would be built in the Flathead Valley in 1892
would attract settlers to the area. Construction on the Conrad Mansion began in 1892 and was completed in 1895.
Charles Conrad and his wife Lettie Conrad commissioned prominent architect, Kirtland Cutter, known for Spokane's
Davenport Hotel and Glacier Park's Lake McDonald Lodge to build a thirteen thousand square foot, family home on
what is now considered Kalispell's historic East side. The Conrad Mansion has three levels with twenty-six rooms and
three bathrooms, complete with indoor plumbing, a luxury in 1895. The Conrad Mansion also boasts its original oak
flooring and woodwork and approximately 90% of the museum's collection, including original furniture, artwork,
photographs, and stained glass are original to the Conrad family. The Conrad Mansion was also one of the first
structures in Kalispell with electricity, because Charles Conrad harnessed the Swan River as it fell into Flathead Lake at
Bigfork. He created a private hydroelectric plant and wired the power over land to the Conrad Mansion, about thirty
miles away. The plant later became a public utility. The Conrad Mansion was a modern home; incredibly innovative and
comfortable for the time.
While living in Fort Benton, Charles Conrad traded with the Plains American Indians and being fluent in the Blackfeet
language, he represented the Blackfeet in their treaty negotiations with the Canadian government. After Charles
Conrad's move to the Flathead Valley, chiefs from surrounding area tribes would visit with him in the Conrad Mansion's
dining room to consult with him regarding Canadian and the United States' American Indian policies.
Throughout the Conrad Mansion, there are references to the Conrad Buffalo Herd. Charles Conrad conceived of the
herd after counting 1.5 million buffalo hides being shipped from Fort Benton to St. Louis in 1874. Predicting that white
settlers would hunt the buffalo to extinction, Charles Conrad formed his own buffalo herd in the Flathead Valley, circa
1896 for conservation purposes. The herd originally grazed on Wild Horse Island in Flathead Lake and eventually settled
a few miles northwest of Kalispell. After Charles Conrad's death in 1902, Lettie Conrad reached out to naturalist W.T.
Hornaday, who spent months at the Conrad Mansion studying the Conrad buffalo herd. Eventually Lettie Conrad
shipped hundreds of buffalo to herds and zoos across the country. In 1908, Lettie Conrad sold thirty-four buffalo to the
American Bison Society in Moise, Montana, wherein they became the ancestors of the buffalo we see at the National
Bison Range today.
Charles and Lettie Conrad raised their three children in the Conrad Mansion. Their youngest child, Alicia, had lived in
the Conrad Mansion for most of her life and she donated her family home to the City of Kalispell in 1974 to honor her
parents and to keep their pioneer spirt alive in the community. During the mid -twentieth century, after the family
fortune dwindled, the Conrad Mansion's gardens became overgrown and by the 1960s, the Conrad Mansion became in a
state of disrepair. Locals considered the Conrad Mansion as the town's official "haunted house" and it was not until a
group of volunteers, spearheaded by local philanthropist, Sam Bibler, began to restore the Conrad Mansion that they
realized its immense worth as a historical resource to the community. The Conrad Mansion has functioned as a historic
house museum since 1974 and its tours allow visitors a glimpse into the life of a successful, nineteenth century Montana
pioneer. The Conrad Mansion Museum operates as a historical resource and it invites the public to explore the archives
while researching the Conrad family or Montana history. In 2019, 748 area students toured the Conrad Mansion on
school tours and 5,600 people came through the Mansion on traditional tours. Over 1,000 locals and visitors attended
the Conrad Mansion's annual events, including the 4th of July Old Fashioned Ice Cream Social as well as Halloween and
Christmas events. The Conrad Mansion is considered a beautiful landmark in downtown Kalispell and its gardens and
grounds are open 24/7 to the public. The property value surrounding the Conrad Mansion is on average higher than in
the rest of Kalispell.
In 1975, the Conrad Mansion was listed as a Historic Landmark on the National Register of Historic Places.
2. Describe how the proposed project will sustain the character defining features and integrity of the
historic resource.
The proposed project will sustain the integrity of the Conrad Mansion's original 1895 design by hiring certified
electricians to install modern, code -regulated wiring in discreet locations throughout the basement, west side
Montana Department of Commerce 7 Montana Historic Preservation Grant Program
2020 Application and Guidelines
exterior, and the third floor of the Conrad Mansion. The original 1895 fuse boxes will be disconnected but
remain on display in their original location to educate visitors on 19th century wiring installation practices.
The light fixtures and outlets will remain the same but updated to current standards behind the walls and
ceilings where accessible. By preserving and exhibiting the original boxes and fixtures, the character defining
features will remain intact while building safety is amplified.
3. Describe how the proposed project will help promote and interpret the heritage value of the
historic resource.
The proposed project will promote and interpret the heritage value of the Conrad Mansion by providing a safe,
code regulated environment which encourages visitors to visit and explore. The heritage value of the Museum
will be preserved through the original wiring system remaining on display. The upgraded wiring will protect the
building and its collection while simultaneously educating the public on the proper steps for the upkeep and
preservation of a 19th century building, which will allow future generations to learn from and enjoy.
STATUTORY CRITERIA - E up to 100 in Possible Points
The degree to which the applicant demonstrates successful track record or experience of the organization
directing the project or similarly related projects.
As applicable to the proposed project, address the following in your response:
I. Describe the organizational capacity and experience with similar projects of all project partners.
Please identify the entity that will administer the grant.
In 2019, the Conrad Mansion received grant funding from the Office of Tourism and Business Development to
replace worn carpet runners throughout the museum. In fall 2018, the Conrad Mansion recognized the need for
new carpet runners. Three local carpeting business inspected the carpet and provided the Conrad Mansion with
quotes. Once the carpentering business, price point and aesthetics were chosen, a timeframe of two weeks was
given, during our off-season (January -May). During the week of March 4th, 2019, new carpet runners were
installed throughout the Mansion.
2. Describe your organization's most recent project, specifically identifying
o any significant barriers or impediments and how your organization overcame them;
o any project delays;
o any changes to the budget
The Conrad Mansion's most recent project is a multi -year, multi -phase project called the Meet Me in the Garden
Project (MMGP). MMGP's goal is to revert the Conrad Mansion's gardens to a traditional, Victorian era garden, and
increase tour numbers and event venue numbers. MMGP has been funded through a partnership with Bibler
Gardens, as well as through fundraising and donations. In spring/summer 2019, we began the first and arguably most
difficult phase of the entire project: Phase I. Barriers associated with Phase I of the MMGP included a lack of
reliable crew of garden laborers, project delays as a result of bad weather , delayed orders, and an overarching
budget that needed to be prioritized and planned with each section.
The Conrad Mansion overcame these barriers by implementing a strict interview and hiring process in regards to
our garden laborer crew. The result was a final crew of three people who had a clear understanding of their tasks
and the project timeline. We also established strong relationship with rock, dirt, and flower vendors so we can rely
on accurate shipments of supplies. The budget has been addressed with a joint collaboration of the Conrad
Mansion's director, Bibler Gardens, and the Mansion's gardener who all have full access to project budget, allowing
for the total budget to be efficiently spread between all five phases of the MMGP.
Phase I of the MMGP ended successfully and after recognizing issues that arose, leading to project delays in 2019.
The barriers that we encountered in Phase I served as a tremendous learning experience to base in which Phase 2
Montana Department of Commerce 8 Montana Historic Preservation Grant Program
2020 Application and Guidelines
can grow from. Phase 2 of the project is scheduled for the 2020 growing season and the project is scheduled for one
phase to be completed through the year 2023.
3. If available, please provide a copy of your organization's most recent audit. Please discuss if there
were any unresolved audit issues.
Please see our attached 2018 990 Form.
STATUTORY CRITERIA - F up to 250 in Possible Points
The degree to which the project has ongoing economic benefit to the state as a result of project
completion.
I . Describe the ongoing economic impact of the proposed project to the local or regional area as a
result of project completion.
The proposed project will have a positive impact on local Kalispell area and the larger Flathead Valley as a
tourist attraction and entertainment venue for locals. By replacing and upgrading our current wiring system into
a code -regulated electrical wiring system, the Mansion can provide visitors with high quality tours, weddings, and
events, leading to positive online reviews and word of mouth recommendations.
The Conrad Mansion's tour guides are paid employees. The upgraded wiring system will allow the Mansion to
host more revenue generating events that rely on electrical wiring to provide lighting on the grounds, which
offers tour guides more working hours.
The Conrad Mansion will hire a local electrical company to install and upgrade the electrical wiring, resulting in
local consumer spending.
2. Describe the ongoing economic impact of the proposed project to Montana as a result of project
completion.
In 2019, the Conrad Mansion saw visitors from every state and fifteen countries. The Conrad Mansion is rated
number one on TripAdvisor for things to do in Kalispell and has a Google rating of 4.6/5. The ongoing economic
impact of the Mansion's wiring project will be a positive impact on tourism. The Mansion often has guests drive
to Montana from Idaho, Washington, or Canada for our Ghost Tour or Christmas Events. The wiring project
will allow the Mansion to safely host out-of-state guests, generating tourism to both the local community and to
Montana as a whole.
3. Describe if this project will enable future phases and detail how such subsequent work will provide
an economic benefit as a result of project completion.
The wiring project will enable future phases of the Mansion's building restoration by recognizing the immediate
need for personal safety and eliminating a potential fire hazard within the museum. The Mansion will better
guarantee the safety of contractors and our own staff as they begin other projects, including the restoration of
the original porch and the rehabilitation of the original office floor.
4. Please describe your long-term vision for the historic resource and explain how this project fits
into organizational plans (strategic, interpretive, business, outreach, etc.).
a. Will this project decrease your operating costs, and, if applicable, how will those
savings be reinvested?
The long-term vision for the Conrad Mansion is stand as a self -supported historic Kalispell landmark and to educate
future generations on the life of Charles Conrad, his family, and the pioneers' role in the shaping of the Flathead Valley
and the American West. By implementing an upgraded wiring system, we can continue our strategic plan of existing as a
Montana Department of Commerce 9 Montana Historic Preservation Grant Program
2020 Application and Guidelines
Kalispell landmark. We can safely host tours and community events without fear of a wiring issue causing a fire and
destroying some or all of the Conrad's collection.
This wiring project will decrease our operating costs by decreasing hours spent by the Mansion caretaker and
electricians investigating a single break in a circuit. The savings will be reinvested into our caretaker's time spent at the
Mansion, wherein he will be able to focus on projects in need of repair or immediate maintenance.
Sample Project Budget
Please adjust the budget rows and columns to accurately reflect the use of MHPG and matching MHPG funding that will
contribute to the completion of project activities.
BUDGET for: Electrical Wiring Project Date: 2/28/2020
(Project Title)
SOURCE:
MHPG
SOURCE:
Match (Identify)
SOURCE:
TOTAL
Professional Consultant
Activities
0
0
0
0
Permitting
0
0
0
0
Construction Costs
36000
0
0
0
Building Materials
0
0
0
0
Other (Describe)
0
0
0
0
TOTAL PROJECT
BUDGET
$36000
$0
$0
$36000
Montana Department of Commerce 10 Montana Historic Preservation Grant Program
2020 Application and Guidelines
Sample Implementation Schedule
Please adjust the Implementation schedule of tasks to accurately reflect the completion of project activities.
TASK
MONTH / YEAR
ADVERTISEMENT FOR PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
Publish RFP
Select firm
Professional services Draw
MAJOR ACTIVITIES/MILESTONES
(BELOW ARE EXAMPLES. PLEASE CHANGE AS NECESSARY FOR THE PROPOSED PROJECT.)
Construction bidding
November 2020
Select contractor
December 2020
Construction
Substantial completion
March 2020
Project Closeout
Drawdowns
Submit draft report and request first drawdown of funds
Submit final report and request final drawdown of funds
Montana Department of Commerce I I Montana Historic Preservation Grant Program
2020 Application and Guidelines
Montana Historic Preservation Grant Program
Environmental Review Process
Conrad Mansion Museum
Upgrade and Rewiring of the Conrad Mansion's Electrical Wiring System Project
In accordance with the 2020 Montana Historic Preservation Grant Program's application and guidelines
regarding the Environmental Review Process, the Conrad Mansion Museum has scheduled a public hearing to
discuss the Upgrade and Rewiring of the Conrad Mansion's Electrical Wiring System on Monday, March 23,
2020 at 5:00pm at the Conrad Mansion (330 Woodland Avenue, Kalispell, MT 59901). All required
Environmental Review documentation will be submitted to Commerce before the May 1, 2020 deadline.
The public hearing and review will be advertised through the Conrad Mansion's Facebook page, website, flyer,
and a press release.
Rrit Clark
Museum Director
Name Title
Signature
2 27 2020
Date
Montana Department of Commerce 12 Montana Historic Preservation Grant Program
2020 Application and Guidelines