Architect reports 'good' construction progress at Coffee County animal shelter

The Capital Outlay Committee on May 7 received a progress report on the county’s new animal shelter, with the project architect saying work is nearing completion but several finish items remain.

"Everything's looking really good. Honestly, construction quality looks good," the architect said, summarizing recent punch‑list work. He reported completion of architectural and civil punch lists, a pending final electrical inspection (scheduled the following day), and testing/balancing set for the coming week. He also said the contractor is short about 250 ceiling tiles and some acoustic wall panels have not shipped; staff are seeking acceptable alternatives to avoid schedule slips.

Committee members discussed minor fixture replacements and landscaping work, drainage and grading where neighboring wetlands are discharging through the site into the detention pond, and installing a privacy screen around the HVAC pad. Ben Lohman (referenced) and the project team are coordinating data and camera systems; most network wiring is terminated and a rack is mounted in the mechanical room awaiting final cable terminations.

No final opening date was set; the project lead estimated handover could fall in late May barring unforeseen delays but emphasized the date was an estimate. The committee approved a separate motion to purchase appliances for the facility and directed staff to coordinate final testing and inspections.