Commissioners approve emergency mover and asbestos remediation payments for courthouse first floor

The Sagadahoc County commissioners authorized emergency spending to clear and remediate first-floor courthouse space damaged in a recent incident.

Commissioner Charles Crosby moved and Commissioner Todd McPhee seconded payment of $3,550 to Bisson for movers and $18,000 to New Meadows for asbestos remediation; Crosby amended the abatement authorization to a not-to-exceed $18,800 and the board approved both measures unanimously.

Facilities Director Aaron Hanscom described the abatement schedule (movers the next day, abatement setup two days after, three-to-four days for remediation) and presented repair estimates for flooring. A carpet quote for the two rooms was $9,719.99 and a vinyl composition tile (VCT) option (including subfloor work) quoted at $9,701.74. Hanscom recommended VCT for health and durability concerns; commissioners agreed tile is preferable and asked Hanscom to write a project specification and obtain at least one additional quote quickly so the work can be scheduled and coordinated with insurance reimbursement.

Commissioners also approved a separate old-business transfer of $6,000 from the DVI Vehicle Capital line to Vehicle Maintenance to cover unexpected repair costs; that motion passed unanimously. The board discussed establishing clearer procurement and pre-authorization policies (purchase orders and thresholds) to avoid unapproved or unexpected repair expenses in the future.

Next step: Hanscom will put together specifications and seek additional vendor pricing; the board will consider bids and insurance documentation as remediation proceeds.