By Clinton J. Sosna

Norfolk’s   landmark and iconic Congregational Church steeple is still in jeopardy. Poor seals have allowed rainwater access to the bell deck which has over the years deteriorated two chestnut support beams and several of the columns that pillar the steeple. Elements essential to the support of the structure have severe wood rot.
The work required to properly repair the damage exists in the realm of specialized contractors who handle steeplejacks and historical preservation. The cost is high. One local company’s quote to replace the steeple is $800,000 dollars. Outsourcing will drop the cost to $400,000. This expense comes   on the heels of the restoration project recently completed on the church’s Tiffany windows.
In true congregational tradition, all major decisions of the church are made at pre-posted meetings of the church membership after discussion and a vote of members present, with a simple majority needed for a decision.   This process was enacted and the congregation approved   the expenditure of   $13,125 to be paid to Valley Restoration, LLC. for temporary shoring of the steeple. This will stabilize the structure and secure time for the fundraising that is paramount to paying the contract for full repairs.