“There is an environmental component as the work is being done and specifications” on handling the lead paint issue. “The good thing is we only have to do this once... the next time the paint chips we’ll just have to paint. As a historical building we want to be sensitive” to not only the present work, but also what might be needed in the future.Lead based paint has been widely publicized in recent months, with numerous recalls of toys - mostly manufactured in China - found to contain the dangerous ingredient. “It’s really been in the news,” noted Bobkiewicz. “This is a big deal and we’re glad once and for all to take care of it” as, otherwise, “paint chips might blow in the wind,” leading to dangerous exposure.The entire project - which is expected to be completed by October 31 - is budgeted at about $55,000, which includes a 10 percent contingency.
Work on historical building an attraction of its own
October 24, 2007
Santa Paula News
The Santa Paula California Oil Museum usually keeps its attractions inside, but in recent days the show has spilled outside.
By Peggy KellySanta Paula TimesThe Santa Paula California Oil Museum usually keeps its attractions inside, but in recent days the show has spilled outside. Painters are working on paint where needed, as well as the turret windows of the upper story of the stately Queen Anne structure. The city has a $1 a year 100-year lease on the building where Union Oil - later Unocal - was founded in 1891.City Manager Wally Bobkiewicz said that the paint and repair job had long been in the works, but that concerns over lead content in the paint led to a delay in launching the exterior redo. “We had the paint job on the capital projects list for about 18 months, but it was delayed” about eight months due to the discovery of lead paint that would have to be painstakingly removed or appropriately contained before the project could begin.The city had to retain a consultant “who specializes” in lead paint issues to “determine the best way” to handle the job. After a complete environmental analysis and plan to deal with the lead paint, the work - which should take about three weeks - was launched Thursday, October 18.
