Firehouse Project Described as ‘Potential Litigation’

When it comes time to weigh in on the nearly 18-month-long, still ongoing construction project, about 30 volunteer firefighters will have their say. 

And that perspective could be offered tonight when Enterprise Fire Company President Chris Gowen said a majority of the members will begin a walk-through of the nearly complete building and offer their suggestions for unfinished or inadequate items. 

A punch list needs to be in the borough’s hands by Aug. 1, Gowen told Patch and the intent, he said is to “make sure we give them something from the fire company, not just me and Jimmy (Anders III).”

“What if Jimmy and I aren’t there next year?” Gowen asked.

that Gowen raised about two weeks ago are still unresolved, he said. 

The Hatboro Borough Council, prior to Monday night’s meeting, held an executive session to discuss “a matter of potential litigation regarding construction,” according to Council President John Zygmont. While he acknowledged after the meeting that the session related to the beleaguered project, Zygmont said he could not disclose the outcome of those talks and instead directed Patch to borough solicitor Christen Pionzio.

Pionzio reiterated that  of the total construction cost, as was decided in May following not following state-mandated procedures for grant reimbursement and failing to complete needed paperwork.

Pionzio said the borough plans to “look into the status of the job.” 

“There’s always inspections going on,” Pionzio said.

Gowen said an elevator inspection is planned for the next week after Titanium receives a part.

And, even though Titanium owner Mark Gill told Patch earlier this month to “tell them to pay me” to help further the project, Gowen said contractors have been onsite.

“I think they’ve been down there doing things,” Gowen said.