As library nears completion, Deschenes resigns as Grafton’s OPM

Andy Deschenes, who served as Owner’s Project Manager for the town on multiple major projects since 2017, has submitted his resignation, hoping to wrap up the Grafton Public Library expansion as his final act.

As OPM, the Grafton resident oversaw the construction of the new DPW facility, various projects improving the Municipal Center, as well as the Grafton Library. The latter had multiple setbacks due to COVID-19, the discovery of multiple petroleum tanks on the property, and issues with the delivery of materials.

“I’ve greatly enjoyed the last three years here – we’ve certainly had some challenges along the way and while I’ve never claimed to be perfect, the feedback I’ve received overall has been positive and the buildings we’ve completed are a benefit to the Town,” Deschenes wrote in his resignation letter. “I had never really intended to stay on permanently; when (former Town Administrator Tim McInerney) hired me, I actually had thought that there was an end date to my contract that would coincide with the completion of the Library project. And while there are many very good reasons to stay – including the staff, serving the community in which I live, and the shortest commute of my life – what really motivates me at this point in my career is large, complex projects.”

Deschenes has joined LeftField, a Boston-based construction firm, according to his LinkedIn profile.

Town Administrator Evan Brassard said the library project is nearly complete, with much of the missing shelving delivered this week. Work is also progressing on the landscaping in front of the old section of the building. The library is slated for a re-opening ceremony on October 1.

Brassard also said bricks are being installed on the Grafton Common walkways this week and the public will be allowed onto the park property as work continues on the beloved Grafton landmark. Deschenes’ responsibilities on the project will be transferred.

“I’ll still be available and want to ensure that projects finish up well,” Deschenes wrote. “I’d like to say ‘thanks’ to everyone – all of the folks I’ve worked with in all of the Town departments, the Select Board and committee members who spend a lot of their own time supporting our Town. I’ll still be around – maybe reading a book in a quiet corner of the Library.”

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