NHCOG discusses move to larger leased space and use of grant overhead for staffing

NHCOG leadership presented a potential office relocation and how overhead would be handled if the council chooses to expand physical space.

Executive Director Rob said an opportunity exists to lease the entire third floor (2,506 sq ft) at roughly the same per-square-foot rate (about $10–$11 per sq ft) the COG currently pays for its 1,663 sq ft first-floor suite. He noted the new suite is furnished, has elevator access and that the landlord is open to negotiating longer lease terms. Rob said current lease escalators would apply and estimated the organization would pay about $3,477.92 per month if it took the third floor, compared with $2,747.88 now — an increase of roughly $600–$700 per month.

Members asked whether overhead could be allocated across grants. Rob replied that overhead gets spread across grants and that some grants (for example, RSG or certain DMAS grants) could contribute to the cost depending on allowable budget lines. Several members urged caution: one member recommended holding off to evaluate office needs given a 3/2 remote/in-office policy and questioned whether the extra space was appropriate if staff are not in the office five days a week.

Rob said the COG can add a staff member in current space if needed and that there is no pressing deadline for a decision, though earlier decisions could facilitate a smoother move. The board did not vote on the lease at the meeting and asked staff to provide more detailed lease terms, escalation specifics and funding sources for consideration.

Ending: Staff will return with specific lease terms, cost breakdowns, and options for funding overhead from grant or operating budgets before the board takes action.