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Council approves $396,000 design contract with BH+A for Hallowell project
Summary
The council approved a $396,000 contract with design firm BH+A to advance schematic design and construction documents for the Hallowell property and authorized committee adjustments to oversee the building phase; debate focused on timing, incoming administration review, and grant deadlines.
The North Smithfield Town Council voted to approve a $396,000 design-services contract with BH+A to advance the Hallowell property project through schematic design, design development and construction documents.
Jeff, representing the Hallowell Review Committee and identified in the meeting as the committee’s architect/lead, told the council he reviewed the contract with the town solicitor and recommended execution. He said the contract aligns with cost estimates in the project master plan and that the consultant would provide phased cost estimates and construction-ready documents to allow bidding.
Several councilors urged caution — suggesting waiting until the incoming town administrator and new council members could review the contract — but others warned that delaying work risked losing momentum and potential grant opportunities. The architect noted multiple stopgaps in the design process and pledged monthly updates and transparency, saying he would flag red flags if they appeared.
Separately, the council discussed a related resolution to expand the Hallowell Review Committee’s role and add alternate members to assist with construction oversight and recommendations; the resolution clarifies that the council retains final decision authority and that the committee’s recommendations are advisory.
Council approved the BH+A contract by roll call and instructed staff and the committee to coordinate upcoming design milestones, cost estimates and any necessary coordination with grant requirements.
