KENT—The Swift House Task Force discussed possible ways to use the approximately $16,000 budgeted for the current fiscal year to make needed upgrades to the town-owned building during a meeting last week. They were scheduled to meet again Wednesday evening, after press time, to continue the discussion.
Among the possibilities outlined by Task Force Chairman Suzanne Charity was repainting the walls of the main room in the ancient building, which dates back to the 18th century. She reported that an environmental inspector had examined the building and found lead paint on the exterior, put no lead paint on the interior plaster walls. There is lead in the paint on the interior wood trim, which would not be touched.
She urged the committee to approve the painting so she could secure a contractor during the busy construction season.
Members of the Task Force expressed reservations, however, fearing that they might be going against code for the removal of lead paint. Charity insisted that statute does not require removal of paint from interior walls if there is no child under the age of six living in the building.
Charity also suggested that the floor in a storage area be taken up and that new joists be put under it to even out the floor and to insulate it against the cold. The area could be used for a handicap-accessible kitchenette in the future.
She said carpentry is needed on exterior stairs and an insecure newel post.
Selectman Glenn Sanchez, who serves on the Task Force, said he was not comfortable acting without firm figures about what the work would cost and with just a verbal assurance that there was no problem with lead remediation.
“I’m all for improving the house,” said Sanchez. “I just want to do it correctly and with a written quote.”
