Charlton Fire Station Project Moves Forward, Town Hall Service Counters, Permitting Guidebook and More
By Janet Stoica
Charlton Town Administrator, Andrew Golas, has released his January 2025 list of updates and projects. “Our fire station project continues to move forward quickly,” he said. “We should be receiving general contractor bids by January 17 with sub-bids received on December 27, 2024 that were released to general contractors. The sub-bids appeared budget-favorable and the school district property conveyance to the town is currently on Governor Maura Healey’s desk awaiting her approval. This approval will resolve any delays in finalizing a general contractor’s agreement.”
Additionally, a quote request for Town Clerk and Town Administrator offices’ installation of service counters has been released as well as ADA (American Disabilities Act) improvements to the existing counters at the Treasurer/Collector & Assessors’ offices. Bids will be due by January 23. Once a contractor is selected, each office will have the opportunity to schedule installation in the best way possible to least impact day-to-day operations.
“The Town Administrator’s office has taken quick action and has already been reorganized by Mary and Chelsea to accommodate the upcoming improvements,” said Golas. “Our town permit guidebook is in process of final revisions and I would like to thank Curt for taking the lead on putting this manual together.”
Bids for the # 2 Schoolhouse Repair Project have been put out and the work is scheduled to be completed before June 30, 2025. Bid documents are available through the Town Administrator’s office. “Our town permit guidebook is in process of final revisions and I would like to thank Curt for taking the lead on putting this manual together,” stated the town administrator.
Mr. Golas also thanked all departments who have submitted their annual budgets. This information will be compiled and placed into a master budget format awaiting state budget numbers. He awaits potential new costs for health insurance as the state has projected a “cautious” revenue projection heading into this year. Conservative projections are forecast as budget planning begins. “With the creation of the Facilities Department in last year’s budget, this year we are looking to centralize facility maintenance in certain areas such as generator maintenance and pest control. These are two areas that we would like to centralize town wide,” he said.
“I would also like to congratulate Rob Barton on his new appointment as our Fire Chief effective December 23, 2024 upon the retirement of Chief Ed Knopf. Best wishes and success to him and our fire department,” said Golas.
Golas also updated about Charlton’s ADA Self Evaluation and Transition Plan and how they are working with The Center for Living & Working. The Center is currently conducting evaluations of all municipal buildings for ADA accessibility. He also mentioned the Town Hall’s roof leaks in the south wing. Roofing contractors have been contacted to make temporary repairs. The roof is over 25 years old and replacement costs will be placed on the town’s long-term capital list.