Fulton has dogged effort to finish shelter

The city of Fulton is taking on the task of constructing the new Garrett Animal Shelter interior, acting as the general contractor for the project.

City Engineer Greg Hayes reported to the city council at its meeting Tuesday that cinder block walls are being set up for dog kennels and the city is in the process of purchasing interior doors. Ward III Councilman Richard Vaughn also informed the council that a St. Louis-based plumbing company has offered to furnish the plumbing for free.

While the interior progresses, the roof may need a second look.

Hayes said that heavy rainfall on Sept. 1 left puddles inside the building and moisture in the insulation. Hayes said there could be a problem with how the contractor molded the tin onto the top of the roof. He's been in contact with the contractor, TS Banze Construction Inc., on fixing the problem.

The city has a one-year warranty on the exterior project.

Hayes also stated more work needs to be done to the Seventh Street Bridge. While the bridge is still safe to pass, lighting needs to be installed. The contractor omitted bolts necessary for lighting, which has caused the delay. Conduit is set up in the bridge and six lights are scheduled to be installed. The bridge's lights are the same as those found throughout the city and will match the height of the street lights, Hayes said.

The council voted for the molded concrete, which has the appearance of rock, will be a "neutral balance tan" color.

In other news, the council approved a proposal from Westminster College for the water tower near the college campus. In exchange for the land the water tower sets, Westminster will dismantle the water tower over three years. City Administrator Bill Johnson said the city previously received an estimate for dismantling the water tower at $22,000. The council also voted "yes" on roof repairs for buildings across Fulton.