The Lower Merion Historical Society

Executive Board Meeting

October 1, 2009

The Lower Merion Academy

Present: Jerry Francis, Denise Francis, Sarah Francis, Phil Eidelson, SteveSelinger, Joanne Murray, Ted Goldsborough, Jack Hagner, Leon Levine, BobbieMcElroy.

Absent: Ross Mitchell, Max Buten, Alison Graham, Andy Amsterdam, Bruce Reed,Dennis Montagna, Anna O’Hora

Single Topic Agenda: Shortfall for Cynwyd Train Station project.

            Issue#1) Continue or stop

#2) Obligations: We must have confidence that we can replace any funds we may

borrow from our endowment

#3) Future Fund Raising

The scope of work changed after Stumpo came on the job. Much unexpected work was uncovered. The original budget was compiled 3 years ago. The shut down of JECB Construction and the set-up of Stumpo Construction has cost an unexpected delay. The building had deteriorated over the past 50 years. Gutting of the building exposed a greater amount of deterioration then could be observed from site inspection. While the building was open, it was decided that it was prudent to make the necessary repairs. Fire damage from 3 fires was found to be greater then anticipated. Foundation walls were badly deteriorated. The main building had to be leveled. The waiting room addition was detached from the main building. The second floor cantilever section was unsafe and the roof canopy posts had no foundation. The Township Code required that we correct earlier band aid repairs. For improved security, we were requested to add more windows in the waiting room. Railings from platform level to upper parking lot were required for passenger safety. AQUA required that a new water service line be installed. SEPTA agreed to install a new sewer line and injector pump. A new fire suppression system will be funded by County and Township grants. Many little and big surprises added to the list of growing expenses.

The structural engineer has passed us on the work already done, so we have the necessary certificate to continue work. The Township has waved many of their fees, but lots of documentation is necessary. Quality of construction has been highly rated. Stumpo Construction has given us an estimate for work still to be done. We probably should have added 35 to 40% contingency for possible over-runs. That, not being done, we must look at how to proceed.

Reasons to Complete Construction:

The Society made a public commitment to the project, accepted public funds, pro bona services, donation of building materials and volunteer labor.

The Station will be an integral part of the developing Cynwyd Heritage Trail. Not having a trailhead would hurt the development of this new park system.

Township inspectors have all given high praise to JECB Construction and Stumpo Construction for the work done so far.

The Cynwyd Station is a key component of our Strategic Plan and our future rental income.

The Second Floor Apartment rental would bring a net income of $8,640 a year.

The first floor office space rental would bring a net income of $7,560 a year.

Negotiations will be necessary with the Township, Aqua and Septa for several required services.

The building needs to be closed and protected before bad weather. Leon Levine moved for a Board agreement to fund, whatever the cost, to finish the shingles, windows and prime painting the exterior of the building, to be sure it is weatherized. The motion was unanimously approved.

Steve Selinger will form a financial planning committee, to investigate funding, over a 3-year period. Our wide variety of constituents, in the Township, will need to be organized.

Historical Society funds will be used to pay the October bills. Then arrangements will be made to pay ourselves back.

Next Meeting: Leon Levine will pole the Board for the best date to get all Board members to the next meeting.

Respectfully Submitted,

Barbara McElroy, RecordingSecretary