New Ipswich is one step closer to a renovation to address space and safety issues at the town’s police department.
During their meeting Tuesday, Select Board members opened four bids from commercial contractors to renovate the current, rented space occupied by the police department on Turnpike Road.
The board narrowed the field to two candidates, a $93,000 bid from Aho Construction, Inc. and a $63,725 bid from Monadnock Commercial Building Co. Board members also directed Jason Somero, their police liaison, to have a follow-up meeting with the final candidates before making a selection after confirming funding sources.
The board is still considering possible funding sources to pay for the work, including the police detail revolving fund, the unexpended fund balance, financing the work or using American Rescue Plan Act funds.
“The Police Department has been neglected for many years, and it really needs to be done,” Somero said.
The board expects to review funding options and review the two bids, as well as a new rental contract that would include a rental increase for additional space, at its first meeting in November.
“It’s something I’d like to see go forward,” said Chair Shawn Talbot.
Board members also discussed the possibility of security upgrades for the department, including updating the current camera system, and an access-controlled exterior entry door. Monadnock Security Systems, in a quote separate from the proposed renovation costs, has estimated the cost, including installation, at $16,628.
The board agreed to also discuss the security upgrades in November.
In a separate issue, the Select Board agreed to appoint current member Lou Alvarez as an alternate to the Zoning Board of Adjustment, despite some qualms about possible conflicts of interest.
By law, a Select Board member may not hold certain offices, but the ZBA is not one. However, Talbot said he still had concerns about issues where an issue before the Select Board could conflict with an issue before the Zoning Board.
Currently, Talbot pointed out, the Select Board is hearing an issue about the legitimacy of a driveway permit for 99 River Road, a private residence that doubles as the location for Silver Scone Teas, an event business. Neighbors have filed an appeal with the board, asking them to repeal the permit based on a number of alleged issues.
Silver Scone Teas is also in front of the Zoning Board, retroactively seeking a special exception to allow the business in a residential zone.
Alvarez said he was focused on an ongoing issue with the Zoning Board being able to host a quorum and a full board for regular business. He said he would recuse himself from cases where there was a conflict of interest. When asked by Talbot, he agreed he would recuse himself from the Silver Scone Tea case if called upon to act as a voting member.
Alvarez said the Select Board would remain his top priority.
“I was elected for this position, so this is my main concern,” he said.
The Select Board anticipates discussing the driveway permit during its meeting on Oct. 25.
Ashley Saari can be reached at 603-924- 7172 ext. 244 or asaari@ledgertranscript.com. She’s on Twitter @AshleySaariMLT.