Local landmark in Kyle, Tex. (Lila Knight)

Dear Preservation 911,

We are in the process of trying to convince our city council to preserve the old water tower in Kyle, Tex., rather than demolish it. Since the cost for demolition alone is $25,000 and the cost of retaining it a mere $50,000, we think we have a good shot at this.

Yet money is tight in a small community of only 5,000. It will cost $5 per person to demolish it and $10 per person to save it.

A potential problem, however, is the lead paint on the tower. It will need to be repainted. Does anyone have any suggestions or pointers or potential pitfalls for us to consider?

If anyone has experience with this, please give us an idea how often it will need to be repainted in the future. We think the engineer has come up with figures that are too high. Any and all information will be appreciated.

We have also discussed lighting it: Any suggestions?

Lila Knight
Hays County, Tex.

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