Selectboard restricts access to Annex after engineer warns of possible collapse

The Brookline Selectboard voted unanimously Sept. 15 to restrict all access to the town Annex and to solicit three quotes for a structural assessment after a professional engineer put the town on notice about serious structural problems.

Jay Kramarczyk, a licensed engineer who earlier sent a letter to the town, warned of "a potential structural collapse or continued failure," citing sagging floors, a sinking concrete bay, inadequate supports and other defects. Building Official and Code Enforcement Officer Dave Descheneaux said his inspection found sinking bays, stress cracks in foundation and chimneys, inadequate stairs and guardrails, and probable lead paint and asbestos in some finishes.

Selectboard member Ed Perry moved to solicit three quotes per the town purchasing policy and to proceed if the lowest structural assessment quote is under $10,000; the motion passed 5–0. The board separately voted to restrict Annex access to only a contracted structural engineer and that engineer's tour guide until the assessment is complete.

Board members cited liability concerns and the building's historical value in supporting the assessment. Selectboard Chair Eddie Arnold and members said they want an engineering report before authorizing repairs or allowing public use. Several residents and trustees who use Annex storage and meeting space said limiting access could affect upcoming events; the board said safety must come first and suggested posting signs, changing door codes and notifying committees.

The board later voted to rescind any earlier decision to proceed with repairs at the Annex, leaving evaluation and further action contingent on the structural assessment and subsequent recommendations.