Lincoln County officials are seeking public input on the future of the sheriff’s office in Wiscasset after an assessment determined that it needs nearly $8 million in repairs and renovations immediately.
The county has held two public hearings on the matter, on June 11 and July 9, but no one from the public attended either hearing or submitted comments in writing.
Lincoln County Administrator Carrie Kipfer said the next step in the process remains getting input from Lincoln County voters on the building, which she considers to be a safety concern.
“I believe it to be a safety issue, and to do nothing would be irresponsible,” Kipfer said.
LCSO Chief Deputy Rand Maker echoed that sentiment. “We cannot do nothing,” he said. “We have to do something. We need a safe place for our employees to work.”
Lincoln County Commissioner Hamilton Meserve suggested members of the public attend a commissioners meeting on the first and third Tuesday of the month and address the issue during the public comment portion of the meeting. Additionally, he said, voters can call the commissioners’ office, send an email or a letter, or stop in at the office during business hours.
Kipfer said the county “would even consider having another public hearing to get the information out.”
Portland-based Gale Associates Inc. conducted the assessment of the sheriff’s office earlier this year at a cost of $112,640.
The firm’s report lists several conditions and deficiencies that affect the building’s performance, comfort, functionality, accessibility, and health and safety.
Recommendations included repairing or replacing exterior masonry, the roof, doors, windows, plumbing, electrical and HVAC systems, along with exterior work on the driveway and sidewalks.
Gale Associates estimated the work would cost $7,487,174, not including design, engineering, and some other costs. That estimate includes a 20 percent contingency for volatility in the construction industry.
When county officials reach a decision on the renovations, it will go before Lincoln County voters for final approval. A copy of the assessment report is available on the county’s website, lincolncountymaine.me. To access the report directly, visit bit.ly/4cxzOGd.
The Lincoln County Board of Commissioners office is located in the Lincoln County Courthouse at 32 High St. in Wiscasset. The office phone number is 207-882-6311.