ICC asks Selectmen for more time on gym acquisition amid COVID-19 uncertainty

Representatives of the Island Community Center told the Selectmen they need more time to complete the acquisition of a town-owned gym building because COVID-19 disrupted planning and fundraising.

Phil Elkin, who the minutes identify as heading the ICC board, said the board has been active for 18 years and that pandemic constraints make taking possession of the building and land this year impractical. The ICC asked the Selectmen for a one-year extension to allow the group to complete surveying, fundraising and other acquisition steps. Town Manager Kathleen Billings said the ICC’s budgetary planning includes possible new staff positions—such as a development person to pursue grants and fundraising—and suggested the board provide updated financials for review.

Selectmen agreed to meet again after reviewing the ICC’s financial statements and the town’s rental agreement to determine whether an extension can be granted administratively or whether a town-meeting article will be required.

Why it matters: The gym building is a town asset and any transfer or long-term arrangement affects capital stewardship, community programming and the town’s long-term liabilities. The ICC’s request illustrates the pandemic’s impact on small nonprofit capacity and fundraising.

What’s next: ICC to provide audited financials and a timeline; Selectmen to review the current rental agreement and confirm whether a town meeting vote is needed.