Budget gap likely despite design changes

By Joseph Kelly

Significant cost-cutting and a $500,000 federal grant have brightened the outlook for Norfolk’s new firehouse, but First Selectman Matt Riiska anticipates having to return to the taxpayers for additional funding.

In July, prospects for the project darkened after initial bids came in more than $1 million over the $9.3 million construction budget that was approved by voters at a meeting in May. But during the last month, the situation has changed.

First, the Firehouse Building Committee voted to make significant changes to the building design, eliminating a raised ventilation feature of the roof, a tower designed for drying hoses and a three-bay garage intended for storing auxiliary equipment. This came on top of significant design changes already enacted in previous budget-cutting rounds.

Then, in the last week of August, Riiska was informed by the office of U.S. Congresswoman Jahanna Hayes that the town will now get $500,000 in federal funds. However, an anticipated $750,000 in federal grants from U.S. Senators Blumenthal and Murphy will have to be reapplied for.

Still, the quick fiscal turnaround produced by the budget cutting and the federal grant has left supporters of the firehouse cautiously optimistic. “I think the pieces are coming together to create a clear picture of how this can happen,” said Tony Kiser, chair of the building committee.

Because of the changes to the design, Riiska will go before members of the Planning and Zoning Commission on Sept. 9 to get their approval. When the final budget numbers are worked out, Riiska said it is “very likely” another special town meeting will be needed to go back to taxpayers for more funds.
Originally, the plan was to start work on the project in early October. Many if not most of the bids have a 90-day expiration date. Riiska said the town’s construction manager, Newfield Construction, is working with the bidders to have them extend their bids by two to three weeks