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

The Island Community Center (ICC) board asked the Stonington Selectmen for a one-year extension to pursue acquisition of a local gym building, citing delays and financial uncertainty tied to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Phil Elkin, who spoke for the ICC board, said the group has been operating for 18 years and has completed many projects but is not ready to take possession of the building and land this year. He asked the board for additional time to complete surveying, fundraising and other acquisition-related work.

Town Manager Billings told the board that ICC discussions include possible staff additions — such as a development officer to pursue grants and fundraising — and that the organization’s budget, including proposed new positions and raised capital, could be in the neighborhood of $500,000. Selectmen asked for ICC financial statements and said they would review the current rental agreement to determine extension terms and whether an article should appear on the annual town meeting warrant.

Selectwoman Evelyn Duncan pressed for details about the ICC’s finances and was among the Selectmen who asked that further review be scheduled once the ICC presents up-to-date financials and the board examines the rental agreement. No final decision was made at the meeting; the Selectmen said they would meet again after reviewing the documents.

If the extension requires a formal conveyance or an article at a town meeting, the Selectmen said they would clarify that with town counsel and place any required items on the warrant.

Next steps: ICC will provide financial documentation and the Selectmen will re-open the matter after reviewing the rental agreement and financials.