Newport
Grant writer and consultant Shelley Hatfield expects to hear in April whether the federal grant is approved, and if it is, work could start in the summer and be completed by the end of the year.
The project would tackle a long list of renovations and upgrades to the center, which was built in the early 1970s.
Improvements include new windows, wiring upgrades, a new fire alarm system that would be tied into the sprinkler system, renovations to the basement with new framing, insulation, flooring, an elevator and staircases.
The upgrades also would address all code requirements under the federal Americans with Disabilities Act, including interior and exterior doors.
Hatfield said she had been discussing the project with the construction manager and the current estimate is $600,000, meaning other grant revenue sources would have to be secured.
Resident Ella Casey spoke in support of the application on Monday, saying it would not only improve the center but also allow Newport to use it as an emergency shelter, as the town has wanted to do.
“I think this will be a fantastic addition to the Senior Center and town as a whole,” Casey said. “It is a marvelous place with activities, good food and nice people.”
Also speaking for the grant was Brenda Burn, director of Sullivan County Nutrition, which runs a transportation service and Meals on Wheels from the senior center.
Burns said surveys show that more than 75 percent of those who rely on the center for meals also use it as their main source of socialization.
Also at Monday’s meeting, Selectboard Chairman Jeff Kessler said the town, which is under mandatory water restrictions because of the ongoing drought, is in the process of trying to establish a third water source.
Currently, the public water supply comes from Gilman Pond and a well in the Pollards Mill area.
Kessler said they have identified five or six sources and are working with the property owners to dig test wells and determine the viability of each location.
The best option will be selected and the town will begin the permitting process, which includes getting municipal control of a 400-foot buffer around the new wellhead.
“It will probably take a few years and will a cost about $1.5 million to bring it online,” Kessler said, adding the cost would be borne by users of the system and likely would be bonded. “So we aren’t just sitting back. We are doing the best we can to have good quality water in town.”
Town Manager Hunter Rieseberg also updated the board on a proposal for the former Lil’ Red Baron restaurant, which closed in 2015 because of a failed septic system.
Rieseberg said the town attorney is reviewing a lease agreement for a fly fishing tackle shop at the property.
The building is located on the town-owned airport property.
Patrick O’Grady can be reached at pogclmt@gmail.com.
