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Residents urge caution on proposed long-term loan for Historic Onancock School repairs
Summary
Public commenters pressed the council for a full building assessment before approving a proposed $542,000 loan for repairs at the Historic Onancock School, warning of long-term costs and uncertain insurance and operating expenses. Friends of Onancock School invited council tours of the facility.
Several residents urged the Town Council to pause and require a full architectural and engineering assessment before committing to a proposed $542,000 loan for repairs at the Historic Onancock School (HOS). Rosemary Paparo said the council and Friends of Onancock School (FOS) should obtain a comprehensive study covering mechanical, electrical, plumbing and building envelope concerns before undertaking long-term borrowing.
"The proposed loan, which would run until 2065, would come at a total cost of $1,087,308.80," Paparo said, adding that heat-pump equipment and windows will need replacement over the loan term and that operating costs for electric heating could increase roughly 40 percent. In a separate statement entered into the record, Margie Labadie, vice president of the Friends of Onancock School, invited council members to tour the facility to see studios, mechanical rooms, the pavilion and other spaces before major decisions are finalized.
