ICC asks Selectmen for one‑year extension on gym acquisition amid COVID uncertainty

Representatives of the ICC asked the Stonington Selectmen to extend the deadline for taking possession of a gym building and adjacent land, citing the pandemic’s impact on fundraising and internal capacity.

Phil Elkin, identified in minutes as head of the ICC board, told Selectmen the organization has operated for 18 years and has accomplished much but that COVID‑19 interrupted fundraising and planning. The ICC asked for another year to resolve financing, complete required surveying and determine next steps for acquisition. Jeannie Hatch was listed as present from the ICC board.

Why it mattered: The town must determine whether to transfer property, alter a rental agreement or hold a town‑meeting vote. The request has fiscal and community-use implications and requires board review of ICC finances and any relevant rental terms.

Board response: Selectmen agreed to review ICC financial statements and to examine the existing rental agreement to determine extension terms. They said they would reconvene after receiving the requested information to decide whether a town‑meeting article was necessary.

Next steps: ICC to provide financials and acquisition documentation; Selectmen to evaluate and return with recommended terms or a warrant article if needed.