Your continued support for the upkeep and improvement of this sacred home of Shri Gurudev - a pilgrimage place for spiritual seekers - is really appreciated.
Below is a list of the projects along with the estimated costs.
1) Roof Coating ~$42K
The flat roofs of the Main Building and the Meditation Hall need coating. The estimated cost is around $42K (around $20K is the estimated material cost and the remaining is the labor cost). Currently exploring options to reduce the labor cost.
2) Pond Retaining Wall ~$35K - Work is in progress.
One of the historic features of the ashram grounds is the pond where Shri Gurudev joyfully guided disciples while feeding fish or boating. Presently, a portion of the pond (~150 linear feet) needs a solid retaining wall necessitated by erosion, hopefully, to be built in time for the rainy season. $35K is the quote from Bella's Aquatic Gardens to do this project.
3) Cottage and Guest House - Maintenance and Recertification
Rust remediation/treatment of the roofs. The estimated cost is $3.5K
Other Building Repairs and Painting. The estimated cost is $4K
As per Miami-Dade County, these two historic buildings are to be recertified. The cost for recertification and required repair work to comply are not available now. The County fee is $900.
4) Mothers House AC Replacement ~$10K to $12K - Received $10K. Prefer to complete this project before Shri Gurudev's Birthday. Currently exploring options.
Currently, the Mothers House has a packaged AC unit. This unit is making very loud noise. Based on the assessment from our technicians, instead of replacing the compressor, it is highly recommended to replace the whole unit.
Currently exploring options - a new packaged unit OR a ductless three-head mini-split.
5) Meditation Hall Porch Screening and Gutter Installation ~$10.5K - Received this fund. Work is in progress.
Install screens in the porch area of the Meditation Hall to protect from rain, so that people could sit comfortably for meals.
Install screens in the porch area of the Meditation Hall and part of the office area.
Repair damaged beams in the porch area of the Meditation Hall.
6) Kitchen AC Replacement ~$3.5K. Work completed. Funding not received.
Replace the current Air Conditioner with the 5-ton unit (used unit) donated by a kriyavan.
7) General Maintenance
a) On-going Ground Maintenance ~$20K/year
Due to FL weather, Shri Gurudev's Rose Garden, fruit trees, and garden require ongoing maintenance year-round. The monthly labor cost for the maintenance of the lawn and part of the garden is $1200/month. The rose garden maintenance costs $180/month. Other expenses include garden supplies (mulch, soil, etc.), tool rental, hedge maintenance, and tree trimming.
b) Utility (Electricity & Propane ~$15K/year, Internet & Phone ~$6K/year)
c) Property and Vehicle Insurance ~$17.5K/year
d) Miscellaneous ~$10K/year