A recent meeting of the Westport Board of Finance sparked discussions over a proposed $7 million maintenance shed at Longshore. The Department of Public Works director requested $222,000 for initial planning and design work for the new facility, which would replace the existing shed dating back to the 1960s.
The new 35,000 square foot building would provide ample space for equipment storage, employee facilities, and meeting rooms. It would also free up room for two new paddleball courts, marking the beginning of a planned Longshore renovation.
Despite the potential benefits of the new facility, some board members raised concerns about the high cost. Board member Danielle Dobin questioned the need for such an expensive structure, suggesting that a more modest option would be more appropriate.
Another point of contention was the proposed location of the maintenance shed, which would require approval from the Planning & Zoning Commission. The debate over funding priorities and project sequencing highlighted the complexities of the decision-making process.
While the final cost of the shed remains uncertain, board members emphasized the importance of exploring cost-effective alternatives and soliciting public feedback before moving forward with the project. First Selectwoman Jen Tooker’s administration will engage with the community and regulatory bodies to address concerns and gather input.
Overall, the discussion surrounding the $7 million shed underscored the challenges of balancing infrastructure needs with fiscal responsibility. As the project moves forward, stakeholders will need to consider various factors to ensure that taxpayer dollars are spent wisely and transparently.
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