An architectural report presented to the Greensboro Selectboard on July 8 finds the 1913 Town Hall building to be in good condition while recommending repairs before the upper floors can be put to expanded use.
Architect Jay Barrett of Barrett Architects delivered his final report Wednesday evening, detailing both short- and long-term options for the building’s upper levels. The upper floors were opened to the public during the town’s Independence Day celebration, drawing surprised residents who had not seen the spaces before and others who recalled past events held there.
“Basically, it’s a good building,” Barrett told the board. “It’s plumb. It’s square. It’s on a good foundation.”
Barrett said the report gives the town a baseline for future discussions with the state fire marshal. “It allows the town to put a stake in the ground. This is the town hall as of right now. Past histories no longer matter,” he said.
Before expanding use of the upper floors, Barrett advised strengthening the roof and resolving fire and accessibility compliance issues, the extent of which depends on how the space will be used.
The board also heard updates on heating system options at the fire station to reclaim heat lost when the truck bay opens in winter, and on new state rules that designate the fire chief as the town’s fire warden.
Originally reported by Newport Daily Express.
Photo: Austin via Unsplash. Photo is illustrative and not from the scene.
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