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Select Board: closed bids not required for fire-station addition; Old Schoolhouse deed unclear, mowing and facilities work discussed
Summary
The board heard that closed bids are unnecessary for the expected fire-station addition cost and that legal counsel cannot conclusively find the Old Schoolhouse deed; the board discussed resurvey options, mowing payments, church propane options, and needed door replacements at the Fire Station and church.
At its Sept. 4 meeting, the New Ashford Select Board considered several town property and facilities matters, including procurement for a proposed fire-station addition, an unresolved deed for the Old Schoolhouse, mowing payments, and building repairs.
Chair Jason Jayko said he researched procurement rules and determined that closed bids are not required for the anticipated cost of the fire-station addition; he said three verbal or written quotes will suffice. The board did not adopt a different procurement approach at the meeting.
Legal counsel told the board staff cannot conclusively locate a deed for the Old Schoolhouse. The board will ask counsel what next steps are; Steve Nielsen is scheduled to attend the Oct. 7 meeting to discuss resurveying the parcel and donating 10 feet to the town if needed, which would change the mowing plot.
On mowing, resident Pete Rancourt requested $60 for a one-time mowing of the church lawn and $400 for the remainder of the season. Jason Jayko said he will mow the church lawn this weekend without charge.
Regarding church heating, Jason said he met with Mirabito about installing a propane tank; Mirabito recommended using existing Town Hall tanks because a new tank would cost about $8,000. Jason will contact Keith Lacasse for pricing on a connection.
The board also discussed recent volunteer work: Robert Lyon donated time and materials to paint the Town Hall and plans to finish the north side when paint is available; Chuck Morrone, Ken McInerney, and Jason Jayko repaired a stone at the cemetery. Jason reported he installed a camera on the Fire Station front and replaced a side-door handle but said the side and back doors of the Fire Station and the church back door are rotted or gapped and need replacement; the board will obtain pricing.
The board noted a change in state law under Chapter 40 that allows accessory dwelling units on lots without a permit; it directed the Planning Board to follow up.
