SOUTHWICK – The Board of Selectmen hosted a working session Monday on the proposed donation of a new animal control facility.
Resident Bob Polverari, a former builder, offered to build a state-of-the-art facility for Southwick’s dogs and cats. The facility would be built behind the public safety buildings at the site of the former Department of Public Works (DPW) carriage house.
“I believe the town deserves a better shelter for its animals,” he said. Polverari moved to Southwick six years ago and said the current shelter, which includes a donated shed where cats are housed, is inadequate and does not fit the landscape of the town, which he called “classy.”
An animal lover, Polverari proposed a 2,000 square-foot building at a cost of $100 per square foot. During the working session, questions arose regarding bids and prevailing wage and the cost of design. Animal Control Officer Tracy Root said Polverari indicated that an architect friend would donate his design services.
Chief Administrative Officer Karl Stinehart asked Root if Polverari wanted to give the town a built facility or if he was willing to give the town the $200,000.
“I’m not sure but I believe he wants to donate a finished facility,” said Root. Several department heads participated in the meeting and agreed the project was worthwhile.
Selectmen Chairman Arthur Pinell called Polverari’s offer “a wonderful opportunity,” a sentiment shared by others at the meeting.
“Obviously Tracy needs it and a citizen stepped up to the plate – I think it’s a good idea,” said Fire Chief Richard Anderson.
Police Chief Mark Kryncki also gave his approval. The Parks and Recreation Commission was asked if it had concerns because the commission previously indicated it wanted to expand Prifti Park.
“No, we just want to use the space on the other side of the existing arborvitae for parking,” said Commission Chairman Kelly Magni. Building and Grounds Supervisor John Westcott said his one concern was underground cables.
“There are s ton of cables under there,” he said, adding that there is conduit for phone wires, as well as water and sewer lines, which he said was favorable for the project. Westcott said he believes the cables would not run under the building site.
“It could be a problem for a parking lot but you could put in a gravel lot instead of paving and that would take care of it,” Westcott said.
DPW Director Jeffrey Neece said he believes it is a “good spot” for the facility. Selectman Russell Fox suggested the board meet with the Conservation Commission and planning board as soon as possible to expedite the process while some of the questions raised are researched with Polverari.
The proposed facility includes 10 dog kennels with outdoor access, a cat room, a quarantine area, a lobby, an office, an adoption space, and a garage.
