RTM approves $700,000 interim appropriation for Nathaniel Witherell plumbing repairs

The Representative Town Meeting on the evening approved a $700,000 interim appropriation for repairs at Nathaniel Witherell, a long-term care facility, after committee chairs described unexpectedly extensive pipe damage that would halt construction work if funds were not released.

Peter Kelly, chair of the Nathaniel Witherell board, read the resolution requesting that $700,000 be appropriated to account H45059070 for a galvanized pipe replacement project (project no. 25399). The item was taken up by the finance, public works, health and human services, and budget overview committees before the full body vote.

Why it matters: Committee members said the scope of damage could not be fully assessed until walls were opened, and contractors could not be kept working without additional interim funding. Several members said stopping work now would close semi-private beds and deepen the facility’s financial strain.

Scott Calb, chair of the finance committee, said the committee met with Nathaniel Witherell leadership and found the problem larger than previously reported: “when the walls were opened at Nathaniel Witherell and they started to see the extent of the damage they realized that they needed to make a further interim request.” He and other committee chairs said prior appropriations had not covered the full extent of needed repairs and that current funds would run out at the end of March.

Cheryl Moss, chair of public works, noted the new request included a 5% contingency. “There was also a 5% contingency included in this new request,” she said during committee remarks.

Kathy Steel, chair of the Health and Human Services Committee, reported progress and an updated schedule: teams had replaced 131 valves and completed six of 12 plumbing stacks, and contractors had improved sequencing; the work was projected to finish in October 2026.

Budget context: Committee members and the budget overview chair said the original budget underestimated the problem; the budget oversight group removed a $735,000 ceiling replacement project from the upcoming capital budget to help offset the cost of the interim appropriation.

Vote and outcome: With no members signed up for further public comment, the RTM took a roll call/app vote. The appropriation carried, with 191 in favor, 5 opposed and 2 abstaining. The moderator instructed staff to display the vote tally and the motion carried.

What’s next: The appropriation funds interim repairs so work can continue while project oversight and capital planning follow-up are requested by standing committees.