Council accepts library budget overrun

Renovating an old building can be more expensive than you planned.
Cramahe Council found out something that Cramahe Now readers already knew at its September 15 meeting when Chief Building Official Natalie Moroz-Cornell tabled her report on the renovations in the basement of the Castleton Town Hall.

Cramahe Township Council approved the contract to renovate the lower level of the Castleton Town Hall in August at a cost of $39,310.

The lower level housed the Castleton branch of the Cramahe Library but was closed when the building was undergoing extensive renovations last year. Construction by Fisher Construction was to begin by Aug. 13 and be complete within 60 days.

When the walls and floor were pulled out the builder found the floor in one corner had sunk and disintegrated. Moisture had climbed up the wall, ruining the insulation.
Ms. Moroz-Cornell told council that the problem was discovered at a time when there was no impending council meeting. After consulting with CAO, Christie Alexander, the chief building official ordered that the $5,000 additional work go ahead. She was at council on September 15 asking for retroactive approval.

Part if the overrun will be paid for with $1,770 remaining in the Castleton building maintenance fund. Mayor Marc Coombs thought the rest might come from general revenues.

Mayor Coombs and Councillor Pat Westrope commended Ms. Moroz-Cornell for the appearance of the now almost-finished basement.

By the end of the week the carpet will be laid, leaving only a stair rail to be completed.

After the work is complete, the township will move in under the direction of the Cramahe Library Board. Shelves and equipment will be installed.