Paradise tackles mold problem at Police Department

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Paradise tackles mold problem at Police Department

By RYAN OLSON - Staff Writer

http://www.chicoer.com/newshome/ci_4235638

Chico, Ca

PARADISE -- Crews are working to eradicate an unwelcome visitor to

the Paradise Police Department -- mold.

Human Resources Manager Farrell updated the council this week

on elevated mold levels that were detected on the Police Department

building's first floor after a series of water leaks. Although the

roof was resurfaced in the past two years, the building's parapet

caps and flashing weren't repaired.

Farrell said the problems, including dry rot, buckled siding and

mushroom growth, appear to stem from leaking from the parapet cap

seals and compromised flashing.

The Town Council approved spending $38,940 from the contingency fund

for the repairs in and outside the building. Repairs inside the

building have been completed although testing needs to be done,

according to Farrell.

Mayor Sam Dresser supported the repairs while hoping crews wouldn't

find additional problems.

" This looks like a best bet, " he said.

The council backed the staff's recommendation for a scaled-back list

of repairs because the town is planning to build its new Civic

Center on the building's Black Olive Drive site in a few years. The

town's consultant Earthshine Consulting Inc. recommended repairs

totaling $85,440.

Farrell noted that additional problems may be discovered as crews

make repairs.

Fixes include replacing some windows, siding and paint, and

repairing the parapet caps and flashing.

Because of the looming rainy season, the council approved the

measure as an emergency action. The declaration streamlines the

bidding process, waiving time requirements for advertising and bid

bonds.

Police Lt. Buzzard said the repairs haven't had a major effect

on operations.

" It has been a little bit inconvenient, but no major disruption, " he

said Thursday.

Buzzard said the interior repair work dislocated some employees, but

they have been able to return. The repairs outside the building may

poise some minor inconveniences to the public.

He said the repairs could address the problems for about five to

eight years. Buzzard said the long-term plans for the site need to

be taken into consideration while making necessary repairs.

Staff writer Olson can be reached at 896-7763 or

rolson@....