Matters ▸ Attachment
Committee Report - PUPW - 3-15-16 — File 201026
Public Utilities and Public Works Committee
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Printed 3/24/2016
March 15, 2016
REPORT OF THE PUBLIC UTILITIES AND PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE
Attendee Name
Title
Status
Arrived
Robert J. McWatters
Chair
Present
Tony Lafuente
Vice Chair
Present
Lance L. Davis
Ward Six Alderman
Present
Others present: Alderman Dennis Sullivan, Alderman William White, Alderman Matt
McLaughlin, Rob King - Capital Projects, Betsy Allen - ADA, Lee Palmer - School Committee,
Steve Roix - School Committee,Tim Snyder - Mayor’s Office, Charles Sillari - Clerk of
Committees
The meeting took place in the Committee Room and was called to order at 6:30 PM by
Alderman McWatters and adjourned at 7:35 PM.
Document List:
•
ADA Issues Summary (with 200695)
•
ESCE ADA meeting notes (with 200695
Approval of the February 17, 2016 Minutes
RESULT:
ACCEPTED
200695: That the Director of Capital Projects and the Disability Coordinator appear before
the Committee on Public Utilities and Works to discuss ADA issues and construction
defects at the East Somerville Community School.
Mr. King distributed 2 handouts, (attached), and reviewed a list of concerns. He also discussed a
parking space, walkways to a basketball court and field, and reported that all work required by
the DPW was completed. Among the issues that were resolved are locker height, floor mats and
signage. Mr. King explained that ADA regulations change frequently and that some of the
changes in question went into effect after the project had been completed.
Public Utilities and Public Works Committee
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Printed 3/24/2016
Residents had concerns about blocks being hit by balls and Mr. King stated that replacement
blocks have been purchased. Ms. Palmer, spoke about her concerns regarding ADA compliance
and the high school renovation and inquired about any recourse the MSBA might have against
contractors. One resident stated that many of the ADA issues were minor and that the Pearl
Street side of the building was an oversight. He went on to say that, although difficult to
traverse, it is a wonderful building. He believes that the process should be better and not be
placed on the educators.
Alderman White spoke about leaking doors and the air handling equipment and would like to see
a reporting process for maintenance issues. Additionally, he requested that 311 reports
pertaining to the leaking doors and air handling equipment be provided. He also spoke about the
problems associated with 1 year warranties and iron clad bid documents. Alderman McLaughin
asked that the ADA entrance be clearly marked. Alderman Lafuente commented that with the
number of project managers on a job, problems still exist. He is concerned about how the new
high school project will be managed and he would like the process revisited. He also expressed
his desire to have camera in public places.
Mr. King spoke about a comprehensive building assessment that will be taking place and said
that some buildings have been chosen to start.
Responding to residents' complaints about 311, Mr. Snyder explained the process and said that
he would follow up on work orders. Alderman Lafuente requested copies of those work orders.
The committee requested that Mr. Whitney be asked to attend the committee's next meeting.
Alderman Lafuente would like individuals to meet on a regular basis regarding the facility and
he asked that Mr. Whitney meet with SomerStat, Rob King and Ms. Bowler and jointly visit the
building and report back to the committee at its next meeting. Mr. Joel Bennett asked to be
present at that meeting.
RESULT:
KEPT IN COMMITTEE