By SYDNEY SCHWARTZ
The Patriot Ledger

MARSHFIELD - A Boston architectural design and structural engineering firm has been selected to do emergency work on the leaky roof at Ventress Memorial Library.

On Friday, selectmen chose CBI Consulting, a firm recommended by public works department engineers.

The public works department and the company will negotiate a price based on the work that needs to be done,’’ Selectman Michael Maresco said. "Like anything else, we want to maximize our dollars and make sure we get the best deal for our money.’’

Selectmen declared an emergency on Jan. 7 because they believed that the leaky roof, which necessitated closing the library from Dec. 17 to Jan. 5, posed a danger to residents and employees.

The declaration accelerated the bidding process, allowing the board to select an architect or engineer for the project in weeks rather than months.

The state Division of Capital Asset Management also granted selectmen a waiver of the public bidding process for contractors and subcontractors.

"Where it’s emergency in nature, we had to get it moving as soon as possible,’’ Maresco said. "(With) the anticipation of a snowy winter, heavy rain, we want to minimize damage.’’

Town meeting authorized spending $160,000 to replace the 24-year-old roof, which has been leaking for five years. But the leaks started before the project was put out to bid.

n recent weeks, the board solicited bids from three designers, and the public works department reviewed the proposals.

Sydney Schwartz may be reached at sschwartz@ledger. com.

Copyright 2008 The Patriot Ledger Transmitted Monday, January 28, 2008