BUTLER TWP — The Butler Area Sewage Authority has approved $1.3 million in renovations and upgrades to its main building on Litman Road.

The vote at its Tuesday meeting for the improvements was 4 to 1 with board member Mike English voting no.

For almost two years board members have discussed the building and what it needs to be more space efficient, handicap accessible and energy efficient.

During that time, English said he would rather the authority replace items one at a time instead of doing an expensive project.

English could not be reached for comment on the matter.

New board member Joe Bratkovich, a former city councilman, said even though Tuesday’s meeting was his first on the board, he had done his homework.

“I talked with Tom Rockovich (BASA manager) and Jerry Patterson (BASA chairman) about the project and the bids, and had a chance to walk around the building,” he said.

“With construction prices continuing to rise, I thought that it was best we go ahead and accept these bids, and get the work done.”

Bratkovich added that he did talk with English and listen to his side of the story.

“I understand what he wanted to do, but I just couldn’t ignore that the project will be cheaper now than later,” Bratkovich said.

Rockovich explained the project calls for work on the heating and air conditioning system, plumbing and roof, along with the installation of an elevator. There will be renovations to the parking area to allow for handicap parking.

BASA’s office staff will be relocated to an as-of-yet undetermined location during the work, which is expected to begin in August and be completed by the holiday season.