Admin building tracking behind
by Michelle Minnoch

Council also received an update on the progress of the New Administration Building (NAB) Wednesday night, and were informed it is tracking behind schedule.

"We are behind with the site building and the permit process," said David Main, Project Manager, MPHM. He said the contractor, Aecon, has shuffled some of the winter projects to the spring.

Aecon submitted their application in October, but the Town and County said their submission did not meet specific requirements. Their application was resubmitted and a temporary permit was issued. Main said they are having issues with the contractor.

"There are potential claims Aecon said they might be making," he said. "We are preparing the documents." He said they are working harder to ensure they are no future claims on the development site.

Main said in the first two weeks, Aecon was quite responsive in working with them, in spite of the delays. Aecon had provided them with a timeframe schedule, but Main said his team was hoping to move their December dates to November dates.

Councilor Rod Boynton asked if it was typical of Aecon to make claims.

"Not that we know of," said Main. "Up until November, we were happy with Aecon. Aecon did check out as reputable. In the first past of December, a notice of a potential claim was given, which was backed up in January with another potential claim." He said with two claims out there, they have to protect themselves.

With $11.6 million budget, Main said they still have 100% of their contingency funds available. He informed council the size of the generator was reduced, which meant a cost savings of $150,00. The original design called for a 600kw generator, while they decided to go with a 275kw.

"That will provide power to the council chambers, computer system and the general work area," he said.

With 50% of the project design complete, they are currently importing fill and pouring the foundation. Main said construction is scheduled for completion December 2007, with occupancy in January 2008.

The NAB is seeking LEED status, like the rec centre, and Main said while 26 points are needed for certification, they are seeking to obtain 29 points.