By Wayne E. Rivet

Staff Writer

While a plan may not necessarily be carved in stone, last minute changes can create logistical problems and add costs.

Bridgton selectmen wrestled with the idea of altering the streetscape blueprint after being approached by the Oberg family regarding saving a parking space in front of their Main Street office.

The Obergs informed officials that they were under the impression last winter as the project was being designed that at least one parking space would be retained. But when work commenced, they found that both spaces were removed in favor of a bumpout that included a tree and a bench.

While project engineer Colin Dinsmore of HEB Engineers reached out to businesses and individuals regarding concerns and comments about the project during the design phase, some miscommunication apparently occurred. The Obergs noted they were never asked about removal of a tree that is located to the Nulty Street side of their insurance office — a move they gladly supported.

Bridgton Town Manager Bob Peabody pointed out that some meetings were held without his knowledge and thus he was “out of the loop” and should have been “in the loop.”

“I hadn’t been kept informed,” he said.

Dinsmore said a “change order” could be pursued, but normally such action when construction is in full swing often carries a cost. For example, he pointed out that the company that was hired to do tree work has since moved on. To bring the company back to cut down the Oberg tree could cost $3,000 — noting that the price was likely lower when the group was in town.

He added that additional engineering fees (estimated 33 billable hours) could be in the $4,950 range.

Immediately, selectmen questioned how Dinsmore arrived at those costs. Selectman Bear Zaidman wondered if there were some cost savings that could be had to address the unexpected expenses.

Selectwoman Carmen Lone wondered if the change in street design might have a negative effect on attempts to improve pedestrian safety. She also questioned who would be responsible to assume the additional costs of the redesign, and feared the board could set a precedent.

Selectman Fred Packard felt that since the Oberg family has been in business on Bridgton’s Main Street for 70 years, “we owe them something. If it costs us $3,000, I think that’s a thank you.”

Restoring a parking spot, removal of the Nulty Street tree and installation of a sidewalk (there was question whether the walkway would extend partly down the street or to the back side of the Oberg building) could move the cost needle to $6,800.

Dinsmore came under fire when selectmen questioned charging for engineering time now that occurred months ago.

“To go back and bill is unfair,” Selectman Bear Zaidman said. Local developer Mark Lopez agreed.

Ultimately, wanting to keep the relationship with the town a positive one and to keep the project moving forward, Dinsmore said he would absorb any additional engineering costs related to the change.

James Oberg felt it was “unfortunate” that the issue arose late in the process, but felt a “good compromise” had been reached. Judy Oberg appreciated selectmen giving her family the time to present their case.

After reconsideration of their previous vote, the board approved the redesign, installation of the sidewalk (part way), removal of the tree and acceptance of Dinsmore’s offer not to bill the town (for the changes) by a 4-1 margin. Lone was against the motion.