Selectboard advances Jericho Town Library project, eyes bids and hazardous-material testing

The Jericho Selectboard received an update on the town library building project and directed staff to proceed toward procurement and limited pre-construction testing.

Chris Brown said the town "expect[s] to go out to bid in late October or early November, aiming towards spring construction." He reported a company remains willing to donate roofing and sheathing and that architects recommended hazardous-material testing prior to construction to avoid unexpected change orders. The board discussed assuming lead paint is present unless certification shows otherwise.

Brown also said the hiring team for the new library director—he, Laura Durham and the library board chair—has six applicants and will schedule interviews. On site planning, Justin Willis reviewed water-line setbacks with Champlain Water District, incorporated Watershed Consulting stormwater plans, and proposed a traditional mound septic suitable for a four-bedroom duplex to preserve affordability; a higher-capacity system would add cost.

Board members agreed to consider a title search by the town attorney before advancing the purchase or development of the property and to continue final technical reviews with state watershed and drinking-water staff.