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Committee approves $42,695 change order to replace mold-affected roof sheathing and treat trusses
Summary
After hygienist testing, the committee approved PCO 59 not to exceed $42,695 to replace plywood sheathing affected by mold in the 1980s portions of the building and to apply mold inhibitor to existing trusses; staff will continue to examine whether contractor means-and-methods contributed to the condition.
The joint Permanent Town Building Committee and Library Trustees voted unanimously on June 22 to approve a not-to-exceed $42,695 change order (PCO 59) to address mold found on roof sheathing in the library's 1980s wings.
Jennifer presented findings and images showing mold on plywood sheathing exposed during demolition of the older portion of the building. The town engaged Universal Environmental Consultants (UEC), whose hygienist recommended replacing affected sheathing and applying a mold inhibitor to existing trusses. Staff said replacement was the most cost-effective long-term solution for the plywood, while truss treatment would be precautionary and targeted to existing members.
Staff provided a rough cost breakout during questions: about $10,000 of the PCO is plywood replacement, roughly $30,000 is for mold-inhibitor application to trusses, and approximately $2,600 covers general contractor fees. Project records show a 10% allowance for plywood replacement was included in the original contract; the PCO covers quantities that exceed that allowance (the team identified 49 sheets requiring replacement and applied a credit for 15 sheets that were previously assumed in the base contract).
Committee members pressed staff on causation and whether contractor means-and-methods during winter exposure may have contributed to the mold development. Staff said the hygienist recommended replacement and truss treatment; the design team and town staff will review whether any costs can be reduced or whether any professional-liability avenues apply, but noted such recoveries are uncommon in the middle of construction and typically pursued after project closeout.
The motion to approve PCO 59 in concept, not to exceed $42,695, passed by voice vote (recorded by staff as 12'0). Staff said the design team would continue to review the condition and pricing to determine whether any cost reductions are possible.
The committee asked staff to return with further analysis on the necessity and extent of truss treatment and any procurement or contractual follow-up. "The hygienist concluded replacement of the sheathing is the most cost-effective and best long-term approach," Jennifer said.
The committee will revisit any recommended changes if investigation into means-and-methods or additional field openings suggest adjustments to the scope or cost.
