Gilford Selectboard to hear update on public works garage construction

GILFORD — The $11.2 million-building that will house the Department of Public Works is moving closer to completion, slated for the summer, and the selectboard is expected to be updated on the progress on Wednesday.

At the March 25 meeting, Public Works Director Meghan Theriault told the selectboard slab preparation on the short roof side of the building was being finalized, and the pour was scheduled the next week. She said Lyman Construction has been working on the pole barn, and about 75% of the piers were completed.

“After the piers are done, when the plants open, we’ll base coat all around that, and then they’ll start the timber build above that,” she said.

Theriault said the siding crew would be returning the next week, and after the concrete is done, crews will start building the masonry walls. She told the selectboard the paint, carpet, tile, and epoxy had been selected, and the furniture bid of $70,017.27 through Hertz Furniture was approved at the last meeting.

According to information provided by Town Administrator Scott Dunn, Hertz initially submitted a quote for higher tier furniture, but they were asked to revise the quote to be more economical. The project architect, Banwell, reviewed the big proposals, and recommended awarding the bid to Hertz, due to their quality and reputation. There was a minimal difference in the two top bid prices. The funds are coming out of the existing project budget.

Theriault said they are working with the architect on an “open space” administration area, creating a desk and counter island for people visiting the department.

The department has consistently updated the public on their progress through videos and summaries of the work on the town website at gilfordnh.gov. The last post was on March 31, and said throughout the winter months, there was significant progress on the structure, roofing, exterior systems, and site development.

The building is fully framed with steel, and the metal roofing started mid-December has been completed, allowing for both interior and exterior work. The concrete masonry façade was installed, and light gauge metal framing was installed to support the exterior wall.

As far as the interior, geothermal blankets and heating were used to remove frost and allow for the installation of under-slab utilities.

The design team is also working on the final elements of the building systems, which includes the cistern configuration and sprinkler pump.

“Despite weather challenges, the project team has maintained momentum and continues working toward a summer occupancy,” the department posted.

Theriault said at the last meeting the project is behind by about two weeks. She said they were once about three weeks behind, but made up some time last month.

“The better weather helps them move a little faster, so hopefully we’ll get that done,” Theriault said.

Theriault will make a presentation to the selectboard on Wednesday, April 8. The agenda also includes a discussion about establishing the role and composition of an energy committee.

In new business, the selectboard will hear an appeal about a driveway permit denial at 191 and 192 Scenic Drive. Glendale parking regulations will also be discussed, as there will be a waiver request and a proposed amendment.

The agenda also includes a police asset forfeiture fund expenditure request; and the acceptance of unanticipated funds, including $2,000 from the Niki Sorell Trust and $500 from HealthTrust.

The selectboard is expected to vote on approving Capital Reserve Fund expenditure requests, including $793.60 to Belknap Landscape for work at Lincoln Park, as well as $5,674.48 to Hutchins Electric for Town Hall HVAC upgrades.

Other items on the agenda include a discussion on public safety detail fees, as well as the Governmental Accounting Standards Board Statement 75 actuary.

Planning and Land Use Director John Ayer has an appointment with the board to give an update on what’s going on in his department.

The selectboard will meet at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, April 8, at Gilford Town Hall. To see the agenda, visit gilfordnh.gov/agenda/Regular-Meeting-3697.