Public Works Committee hears updates on DPW Shop, 3rd-floor renovations and Conflict Defender Building

County public works staff updated the Allegany County Public Works Committee on several capital and renovation projects at the June 3 meeting.

County Superintendent Thomas Windus reported on change orders for the DPW Shop, including omission of mezzanine sprinkler piping that required additional work; the initial quote for that piping was roughly $40,000 but was reduced to about $23,000 after negotiations with contractors Watchdog and Hunt. Windus said the project is approximately $54,000 above the base bid but remains within contingency allowances. He told the committee the projected completion date for the DPW Shop is June 2027 and that Board Chairman Harris authorized a walkabout for interested members on June 10 at 11:00 a.m.

Deputy County Superintendent Dean Scholes reported progress on the 3rd-floor renovation, noting sheetrock work and that a Buildings & Grounds summer helper is assisting; staff cautioned against entering the construction area but offered tours. On the Conflict Defender Building, Windus said a gas-fired heater for the downstairs was shipped but controls were not; the county still needs recirculating air before occupancy. Desks, chairs, IT, cameras and the electronic access system are in place; National Fuel has been scheduled to replace a meter on an unspecified date to permit generator startup and training.

The committee discussed scheduling and remaining punch-list items; staff will continue to report status updates and oversee remaining change-order pricing.