Designers of the proposed Sandy Hook Permanent Memorial have met with members of the commission to answer budgetary questions.  Designers Ben Waldo and Dan Affleck recommended bringing in a professional cost estimator. 

In response to possible cost saving moves, they said crushed stone in the parking area is not recommended and noted that there will be enough lighting for code compliance.  The parking lot is designed for 16 spaces.  Their firm, SWA, deferred other security decisions to the town.  The entry gate would be included in that deferral. 

The decision on bathrooms will also be deferred to the town, but note that they are the most universally desired facility and not a significant cost difference. 

First Selectman Dan Rosenthal said he would discuss with the Land Use Department about the possibility of using the property behind the firehouse for access, saying it may change the cost dynamic significantly.

SWA has relationships with area nurseries and can ask them about donations or price reductions.  Pond rehabilitation is subject to more discussion.  Ben Waldo and Dan Affleck noted that there maybe schools or students that can clean the ponds on the property.  The ponds are interconnected so what's done to one is done to the other. 

Rosenthal said he'd look to see what the Newtown Department of Public Works can do on site.  Planting costs could be reduced by using hydroseed, but that would take time to establish.