FAQ

Questions and Answers

Comment to ask your question or email us for more info - 

the answers below were given in 2012.

UPDATE 2016- THE MILL IS NOW UNDER CONTRACT TO POTENTIAL NEW BUYERS WHO PLAN TO RENOVATE THE MILL. WE HOPE THEY WILL TAKE OVER THIS BLOG TO KEEP YOU UPDATED. WE ARE STILL TAKING BACKUP OFFERS ON THE MILL IF THE SALE FALLS THROUGH.

Q - What are you going to do with the mill?
A -  We do not have a solid plan for a use for the mill yet.  We are open to ideas and suggestions from interested parties.  While feasible uses are being determined, the condition and needs of the building will be assessed.   Work will begin to make it safe, fully enclosed, protected and attractive.

Q -  Do you have funds or resources to restore the mill?
A -  Not so much.  We cobbled together enough money to finance the purchase of the mill because there was pressure on the former owner to sell the mill for timber salvage.  We knew it would be a bad thing for the community to lose such an iconic historic building.  We'll be making repairs and improvements as money and help comes in.

Q -  The mill is in such bad shape.  How do you think you can renovate it to the point it could be safely used for anything?
A -  Yes, the mill looks pretty hopeless from the outside but from the inside you can see how sturdily it was built - in fact, overbuilt - and designed to handle heavy loads.  The interior wood looks good with little damage, the electrical is clearly visible and accessible and there currently is no plumbing to cause havoc.

Q -  How do you plan to start?
A -  First with elbow grease and know-how  - 

1.  Cleaning the mill, eliminating unwanted critters
2.  Patching various holes in the floor, roof, etc.
3.  Securing/repairing windows, doors & other entrances
4.  Removing or repairing any exterior hazards
5.  Exploring good economic uses for the mill that are also good for Fairview and the surrounding neighborhood  
6.  Selling off unneeded machinery, metal, etc. to raise funds

Q -  Do you need volunteer help for the Fairview Mill?

A -  We welcome any volunteer help from adults, unskilled or skilled, to do work that is not hazardous.  Even though the mill is privately owned our interest is in saving the mill and putting it to productive use, not making a profit (breaking even would be nice :)  Volunteer labor would help keep the costs of renovation down get the project done sooner.

Q -  I am a contractor.  Are you taking bids now?

A -  Yes, we are seeking bids or estimates from experienced, licensed and insured contractors for -

• Re-roofing the main mill building with thin-sawn cedar shingles
• Wooden window repair and replication
• Wooden siding repair and installation
• Sewer and water connection
• HVAC

Q -  What if I want to buy the building?

A -  The mill is not currently on the market but we are happy to talk with anyone with a vision for it's preservation.