Tamworth library roof vent damaged during solar work; repair estimate about $4,000

Library Director Mary Bridal told the Select Board that workers installing rooftop solar discovered the buildingstack plumbing vent had been pushed and bent by snow and needs repair both inside and out.

Facilities staff made a temporary caulk-and-seal repair and have been monitoring the vent during rain events. Bridal said a preliminary, ballpark estimate from a contractor who has worked for the town was about $4,000, but contractors warned they could not give a final price until they inspect both the interior and exterior conditions; the work will likely involve a plumber, roofer and a lift.

Bridal asked whether the town could fund the fix from the building fund or from town building repair contingency so the work could be completed before winter; she said the library does not have $4,000 available in its own building fund because money earmarked for finishing an accessibility lift has been committed.

Board members advised Bridal to obtain multiple estimates for the combined plumbing and roofing work. Town staff suggested that departments delay tapping the contingency fund in advance and, if the library spends necessary funds now, the board can consider a year-end reimbursement from contingency to avoid increasing the unassigned fund balance.

Bridal said she would seek additional contractor names, request multiple bids and bring estimates back to the board at the next budget meeting. The board confirmed that if the cost remains under $5,000, the department does not need select-board approval to schedule the repair from its budget.