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Questions Surround Lewis County Building Proposal

Story Published: Feb 21, 2013 at 7:34 PM EDT

Story Updated: Feb 21, 2013 at 7:34 PM EDT

It looks good on paper - a new building that would let a number of Lewis County departments move out of their rented spaces. 

But, will it actually happen?

"That's the million dollar question, or should I say, $11 million question," said Legislature Chair Mike Tabolt. 

Should the building be two stories, or three?  

Would Social Services need the entire second floor?

Should the 911 dispatch center be put in the new building or relocate to where Social Services is now?

Would the current Social Services building need expensive renovations so it can be used for something else?

"There's a still a lot of feedback we're looking for," said Tabolt.

The village of Lowville has questions of its own, like water, sewer and road repairs.

The site for the building - outer Stowe Street - is inside village limits.

"If we needed our sewage lines to be able to withstand this, obviously the village would be responsible for that," said Lowville Mayor Donna Smith.

But even if all the questions about the size of the building, or who'd be where, are answered, there's still one other question that's the most important of all."

Does it make financial sense?

"It's still that gut feeling, are you doing the right decision," said Tabolt.

Lawmakers had hoped to make a decision next month.

Now, they're not so sure.

An informational public forum on the project has been set for this coming Tuesday.

It'll be at 7 p.m. at the Lowville Fire Hall.
 
Saturday, May 18, 2013
, Watertown, NY

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