Long-promised improvements to the facade of Port Orchard’s Myhre Building continue to languish while its project contractor seeks to solve challenges brought on by deterioration to the building from weather exposure.

Building owner Mansour Samadpour agreed to spruce up the landmark building’s shabby appearance after discussions late last year with Mayor Rob Putaansuu. The city approved permits in April and Port Orchard construction company BJC Group began the work by replacing some weather-beaten exterior panels and removing material judged to be a hazard to strollers walking alongside it.

The facade work was to be completed in about four weeks, but the contractor quickly ran into electrical issues and found sections of plywood on the building that had been irretrievably damaged by the weather.

“The OSB siding is compromised,” Putaansuu said, “and it’s pretty expensive to remove it all. The contractor is looking at some solutions.”

The mayor, who said he is frustrated by the delays, said the project so far “has been a comedy of unfortunate delays.” He said he spoke with Samadpour about the project following the Fourth of July holiday. “I told him ‘Gosh, you said you’d get this done by spring, and here it’s summer. And it’s still not done.’”

Putaansuu said the absentee owner was apologetic about the delay, and said his team was working through their issues. “Trust me, I want it done,” he chuckled, and said, “I am constantly working this issue, not ignoring it.”

Samadpour’s property management company Abadan Holdings LLC owns several other downtown properties, as well. Putaansuu said the two also discussed the future of those properties and potential tenants for them.

“He’s looking for tenants and would love to lease the places, but it’s tough to find tenants for commercial spaces downtown,” he said. “There’s not a lot of demand.”

No date has been given for the completion of the project.