ICC asks Selectmen for one-year extension on gym building acquisition

The Island Community Center (ICC) board asked the Stonington Selectmen on Dec. 14 for a one-year extension to complete work necessary to take possession of a gym building and the associated land.

Phil Elkin, speaking for the ICC, said the organization has “been in existence 18 years and accomplished many things” but that the COVID-19 pandemic interrupted revenue and volunteer capacity, and the board is not ready this year to assume ownership. Town Manager Kathleen Billings-Pezaris told the board ICC must provide updated financial statements and clarify outstanding tasks such as surveying before the Selectmen will consider approving an extension.

The Selectmen did not vote on an extension at the meeting. They agreed to meet again after reviewing the ICC’s financial documents and the town’s existing rental agreement to determine whether an extension can be granted administratively or whether the matter should be placed on the annual town meeting warrant.

Why this matters: The question affects whether a community organization will assume long‑term responsibility for town property and its capital needs. Transferring ownership could shift maintenance costs and liability from the town to the ICC, and the Selectmen said they want a clearer picture of the ICC’s fundraising and staffing plans before making that change.

What’s next: The Selectmen asked ICC to return with detailed financials and a plan that explains how the board will fund surveying, acquisition legal work and any capital repairs. If the documents indicate broader public or fiscal implications, the Selectmen said they will put the extension on a town meeting warrant for voter approval.