The Central Wisconsin Model Railroaders Club has also donated the use of a model train for the display.

The final firehouse creation was a cooperative effort between the hotel’s engineering, maintenance and housekeeping staff, as well as the kitchen crew and some guests.

The firehouse — Historic Firehouse No. 2 — was first constructed in 1885. The building initially included four bedrooms, a hayloft and an engine room, where a team of horses and a pump engine were kept. The building was sold to the Historical Society for $1 in 2005.

Fire Chief Jack Draves said the unexpected and additional costs aren't surprising, considering the station was built in the late 1970's and early 1980's.

"The construction methods and materials are different (today), and it makes sense to upgrade to more-efficient appliances and equipment," Draves said in an email to cleveland.com. "As with any remodeling project, there are many hidden issues and they are not discovered until you get into the project."

Seitz's low bid - and the potential for change orders that would drive up costs - was a concern of some council members in July, before council accepted Seitz's bid. The other five bids ranged from $611,700 to $842,780.