Assessment of Falmouth Town Hall Finds Mold Spores, Asbestos and Rodent Feces

A study conducted on behalf of Falmouth, Maine uncovered a litany of potentially dangerous environmental, health and safety concerns in the area's Town Hall including mold spores, asbestos and rodent feces. Based off of the conclusions from the study, a recommendation of nearly $1 million worth of updates and renovations now sits with Falmouth's officials. The study, conducted by Oak Point Associates, also found deficiencies in the building's energy usage and appearance, as well as serious concerns over the structural integrity. Despite the variety of issues pertaining to the Town Hall, the Falmouth Town Council is pushing to address the areas that pose a threat to the health and safety of the community. Though not entirely dismissing the comprehensive recommendations proposed by Oak Point Associates, Falmouth officials will review each area of need and address areas that are considered to be primary. An area that the Town Council would like to address first pertains to the indoor air quality. According to the study, the crawl space in the Falmouth Town Hall has "elevated levels of mold spore activity" that is contaminating the air. The vents that directly link to the crawl space have been since closed. Also threatening the indoor air quality is the discovery of ceiling tiles laden with condensation, rodent feces and urine. Breathing in air that is contaminated with mold and animal droppings is detrimental to the overall health of those who work in the building. Chiefly, repeated exposure to this contaminated air can lead to serious medical conditions including lung infections, bronchitis and, in some cases, triggering a severe allergic reaction. A significant portion of the nearly $1 million in recommended renovations is devoted to replacing and updating the exterior siding. The siding is a combination of wooden clapboards – a common feature of buildings of the age – and asbestos siding. Asbestos is a naturally-occurring mineral often used in building and construction supplies. Classified as a carcinogen, asbestos exposure can lead to mesothelioma cancer, lung cancer and asbestosis. For Falmouth Town officials, discussing whether to implement all of or part of the recommendations will resume in the fall.

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