Nunda governments settling into new HQ

Nunda Town Clerk Cindy Essler, Village Clerk/Treasurer Merilee Walker and Deputy Clerk Lori Gray in the new Government Center reception area. Photo by Mark Gillespie

NUNDA, NY — After two years of planning and renovations, the Town and Village of Nunda has moved into their Government Center on Massachussetts Street. The building is also home to the code enforcer and court.

Prior to the change, the town government offices were located within the Highway Department building. Similarly, the village government shared their building with the police department. While the village dealt with some space issues, the town was “really cramped for space,” according to Town Clerk Cindy Essler. As a result, town officials also had to deal with a lack of privacy.

When the community home began experiencing financial difficulties, Nunda residents attempted to keep it afloat. However, they were unsuccessful and the home closed. The building was then offered to the Town of Nunda for $1. Afterward, the town approached the village about joining in on the project.

The house was originally owned by banker, I.J. DePuy. Ground was broken in 1901 and DePuy spared no expense in the construction process. He hoped that by using the best materials, the building would withstand the test of time.

Prior to the town and village governments moving in, work had to be done both inside and outside of the building. The architecture firm Clark Patterson was responsible for engineering the new sprinkler system and elevator (required to make the building handicap accessible).

Multiple councilpersons were involved in the project, including Kirk Brickwood and Dave Thompson. Councilman John Thompson was responsible for networking the building. In addition, Doris Marsh helped bring in youth volunteers to assist with yardwork.

Highway employee Tim Cassidy worked on the lights, floors, molding, and bathrooms within the building. Highway supervisor Rick Moran was responsible for scheduling Cassidy accordingly.

In addition, the Department of Public Works helped save both time and money on the project. While they helped with sidewalks, landscaping, and the moving process, their work on the water service was significant. A 6-inch main needed to be installed for the sprinkler system.

Sheriff John York graciously allowed work crews to help with interior work – including painting. Modern Home also provided assistance with the project.

The Government Center is open Monday through Friday from 9am-4:30pm. While all of the phone numbers remain the same, the telephone system has added the ability to transfer calls. Therefor if a resident dials the wrong number, they can be transferred to the correct office without having to re-dial.

See complete story in our Dec. 10 print edition. Click on a thumbnail below to view a slideshow by Mark Gillespie.