NORWICH - The plan by the Chenango County Board of Supervisors to construct a new $35 million office building is still taking shape with engineers finishing blueprints and LeChase construction reviewing for estimated costs. Chairman of the Board Jeffrey Blanchard said final decisions will be made once costs are presented.

“Basically, the engineers are close to finishing the drawings and then we’ll send those over to the LeChase team to provide an estimate total for the renovation,” said Blanchard.

“That process will take LeChase about four weeks, and then we’ll know if we’re within budget,” Blanchard said. “We may need to make some changes if we’re over the budget, so we’re waiting to see if this project is feasible."

Blanchard noted once they have solid numbers, possibly mid-April, they will schedule a public meeting.

"This project has been carefully thought out and we’re doing our due diligence in considering all options,” he said.

Opponents of the building project have questioned the county’s financial stewardship and consider saving the $35 million by leasing space elsewhere.

Only some of the county-run departments are lawfully required to stay within the City of Norwich, the county seat.