On Tuesday, April 25, New Fairfield’s Permanent Building Committee (PBC) learned from Colliers International’s representatives about what will be a remarkably tight parking situation in the fall. Mr. Mark Schweitzer said, “with the existing high school not being down and that parking lot not being completed, we’re going to be really tight.” In reaction, they are looking for “where we can get some spaces,” including possibly acting on a plan to create permeable parking spots that were originally noted as an Add Alternate but were not taken up. The plan may be to add pavers with grass in between. The would be fair weather only, temporary overflow parking, and would not be plowed in winter.
O&G’s Mr. Zach Rowley was happy to report the elementary school punch list items that were taken care of during the school district’s spring break. The remaining items are covered under warranties, such as a lighting control issue, and will be completed this summer. In a follow-up on the leaking underground water tank(s), he explained that the manufacturer was onsite over break and the third tank was drained and inspected but nothing was found. They saw a couple areas that needed “a little bit of patchwork” and the tank is being monitored.
Given that the projects are nearing completion, PBC members discussed closing contracts and the standard waiver of lien from the contractor themselves and/or their vendors. Wanting to avoid any surprises, PBC members asked that vendors be confirmed as paid. They learned from Mr. Joe Vetro that O&G is “pretty strict about that.” He said, “there are final lien waivers that have to be signed by the subcontractors certifying all of their subs have been paid as well. There are no liens on the job prior to the final payment being released.” PBC members also stressed the importance of the end users being trained on all systems as each contractor completes their work.
Vetro walked the PBC through images of the current high school, with highlights at the skylight in the main corridor, the gym, and the dining commons.
There was a discussion about an ongoing move to redesign a retaining wall at the middle school after the current high school undergoes demolition. Originally, there was a retaining wall in the plans that would separate the existing building and the new parking lot. However, a subcontractor had ideas that will possibly save some money on the project.
The PBC pushed back on potential charges for trenches that need to be dug as they feel that the estimated expenses were far too high.
The next regular New Fairfield Permanent Building Committee is scheduled for Tuesday, May 9, 7:30 p.m.
By Sarah Opdahl