Select Board approves $88,300 septic repair contract for police station

The Select Board voted Aug. 10 to award the police station septic repair contract to Brookstone Builders at a contract price of $88,300.

Staff (S9) said two complete bids were received after canvassing firms; the lower bidder quoted $88,000 and the higher $117,000. The project had $80,000 approved at town meeting; S9 said he was confident he could cover an $8,300 difference from his salary line but recommended a contingency (one contractor suggested 15%) because the work requires cutting into floors and walls and unknown conditions may be uncovered.

Board members approved a motion to award the work and finance it with $80,000 from the prior warrant and remaining funds from the police budget; contingency sources cited included the municipal building trust fund or the contingency fund as needed. Construction was anticipated to begin promptly, weather permitting, and staff estimated a 4–6 week work window. The board approved the motion by voice vote.

"We have 2 bids, with, with your blessing, we would go with the lower bid and get started as soon as possible," staff said. The motion specified Brookstone Builders as the contractor at $88,300, with contingency and funding sources to be clarified by staff.