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Reading Energy Board advances MERP-funded upgrades for town buildings
Summary
At its May 15 meeting the Reading Energy Board reviewed MERP-funded projects across town buildings: an RFP for firehouse HVAC design is due June 5, Robinson Hall insulation work was recommended with wiring replacement required, the Food Shelf electrical upgrade awaits GMP input, and mini-split quotes will be sought.
The Reading Energy Board on May 15 reviewed several MERP-funded projects aimed at improving energy systems and building envelopes at town properties and approved the April meeting minutes.
Board member Brian Cali reported an RFP is out seeking engineering firms to provide HVAC design, assist with bidding and help identify and select installers for the firehouse; he said Martha from MARC assisted with the RFP and that responses are due June 5, noting concern about the possibility of receiving only one bid for a single building. Board member Brian Cali said he will follow up as bids arrive.
Board member Bill Neukomm reported on Robinson Hall, saying he had received two quotes for attic insulation and weatherization and recommended Chey Insulation. Neukomm said the attic contains knob-and-tube wiring, which must be removed before new insulation can be installed; Brite Lite Electric was identified to replace the wiring on a time-and-materials basis. Neukomm said he would discuss a not‑to‑exceed cost with the electrical contractor and report back.
Neukomm also outlined a quoted upgrade to the Food Shelf electrical service from Brite Lite Electric but said the town is waiting for GMP to determine whether the service line from the pole must be replaced. Neukomm said he is seeking a second electrician's quote and expressed the hope that the total cost will not exceed $25,000. Board member Brian Cali raised questions about how the bid was advertised; Neukomm said he had discussed procurement procedures with Calista.
For both Robinson Hall and the Food Shelf the board agreed the next step is to obtain quotes for mini-split heating/cooling units. Cali said he will send regular project updates to the Selectboard and that he and Calista will monitor MERP fund spending.
Procedural items: Board member Bill Neukomm moved to approve the April meeting minutes; Kevin Kaija seconded the motion and the minutes were approved. The board set its next meeting for June 12 at 7:00 p.m. via Zoom and adjourned at 7:43 p.m.
The board did not set specific contract awards at this meeting; members identified follow-up tasks including soliciting additional bids, confirming GMP's service-line determination for the Food Shelf, and seeking a not‑to‑exceed price for electrical work at Robinson Hall.
