Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Community Services topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Library renovations advance; community services seeks carport for senior center vehicles
Summary
Community Services updated the committee on an ongoing library renovation funded mainly by the Anne and Ed Nordforce bequest and on a separate senior center carport request. The library project has architect design, awarded bid, and pending lead/asbestos testing; the senior center carport has two estimates and an earmark request to Sen. Zlotnik.
Community Services presented two capital priorities to the Capital Improvements Committee on Nov. 5: completion of an interior renovation for the adult side of the library and a carport to shelter senior center vehicles.
Library renovation: Jackie (Community Services) described a renovation of the front two rooms on the adult side. The scope includes updated electrical work, ADA‑compliant bookshelf configuration, bathroom modifications, refinished floors, wall repairs and upgraded lighting. Funding sources are the Anne and Ed Nordforce bequest (the primary funder), a prior Community Preservation Act (CPA) grant, and a warrant article on the fall town meeting. The project has an architect’s design; the bid was awarded to a contractor and off‑site millwork for bookcases and window seats is contracted. Staff collected samples for lead and asbestos testing and expected results the following week; Jackie said the test results could affect the final budget if remediation is required. Jackie agreed to provide the committee with a rough multi‑year phasing plan and ballpark costs for remaining work so the committee can incorporate the library work into its five‑year capital planning.
Senior services carport: Jackie described the department’s request for a carport to shelter senior center vehicles that are currently parked in an uncovered corner of the lot. She said the center’s drivers — retired volunteers — must climb to a second‑floor platform with a large broom to clear snow from tall vehicles, a difficult and potentially risky task. The packet includes two estimates from Fishette Construction; the department prefers the model that includes sides. Jackie said an earmark request to Sen. Zlotnik is being pursued but described it as a “long shot.” She said formula grant funding could be used for this purpose in principle, but the grant balance would not cover the full cost without exhausting the program’s funds. Jackie emphasized the carport would improve safety and speed vehicle readiness during snow events.
Ending: Committee members asked for clearer phasing and ballpark figures for the library work and accepted the senior center carport presentation for prioritization. Jackie agreed to provide a rough multi‑year cost and phasing outline before the committee’s next deliberations.
