By Sarah Opdahl

New Fairfield’s Permanent Building Committee (PBC) met on Tuesday, April 9 to discuss open issues with ongoing school construction. One lingering topic is the propane mercaptan smell at the new high school. Though temporary propane tanks were in place since December, the science classrooms never received the all clear to use the propane, despite several attempts to resolve the issue. Recent tests were conducted to ideally pave the way for the science classrooms to begin using all of their features.

Special mercaptan sampling with a consultant from New Hampshire is planned and Fire Marshall Mr. Derrek Guertin will be present for the testing. With positive results on the propane tests, the classrooms will likely be cleared for use. However, gas issues in general will not be complete as the school hopes to return to using the underground permanent tanks, rather than temporary tanks. Right now, the  separate tanks are fed from the underground line, just off the underground storage tanks. Attempts to reconnect to the permanent system will likely occur over the summer break.

Work outside New Fairfield Middle School continues, with the parking lot behind the school in progress, plus grading and prepping occurring for sidewalks. On the building, the masons have started on the veneer, the HVAC contractor has installed multiple split systems, final ductwork is being placed, and windows will be installe d. It was noted that additional heating is  needed in the girls’ locker room near the pool.

JCJ Architecture’s Ms. Christine O’Hare explained that AV professionals would visit the new high school over spring break to complete the installation of the broadcast equipment. She said, “Hopefully by the end of that they will be done with their work and then we can continue the training with the staff.” Another high school project that was approved involves an “oversight,” placing a wood cap at the top of the spiral staircases in the auditorium.

It was mentioned that work to fix the elementary playground’s surface and equipment is planned for spring break, if the weather is cooperative.

The next regular Permanent Building Committee meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, April 23, 7:30 p.m.