Cracks in public works garage floor to be sealed

GREENVILLE – Although there was some dispute over what caused the cracks in the floor of the new public works garage, a local contractor told selectmen Wednesday he would apply a special resin to seal the cracks in the concrete.

An engineer retained by the town suggested the floor was “curling” because the mesh installed under the new concrete had not been suspended. The building, which has been renovated for a public works garage and recycling center, initially had a concrete floor. But because town officials wanted radiant heat, the heating units were installed in the floor, mesh was laid and a new concrete floor was poured on top.

Contractor Bob Ifell told selectmen this week that he believes the cracks occurred from the heaving of the old concrete floor. However, he agreed to spread the resin the town purchased for the floor.

Selectmen gave Ifell until June 5 to have the building completed. Any items that remained after that date would be completed by another contractor and funded through his contract with the town.

In other business Wednesday, the board agreed to recommend to residents at the annual town meeting that a recycling enhancement ordinance be adopted. In addition, the board will recommend that once a month curbside collection of recyclables be authorized at an estimated cost of $6,900, and that the town spend $2,500 to purchase recycling bins for households.

The board also voted to purchase the body and plow for the new public works truck from H.P. Fairfield Inc. of Skowhegan at a cost of $46,395. The truck was purchased previously from another business. By negotiating, the town saved about $6,567, according to Town Manager John Simko.

The board took no action on an abatement request for property demolished by fire. Maine law is very specific on abatements and there are no provisions for property damaged or demolished by fire, Simko said Thursday.