Stilwell council tables 20-year Mehegan Building lease with public school pending repairs

The Stilwell City Council on July 6 tabled consideration of a proposed 20-year lease of the Mehegan Building to Stilwell Public Schools, citing concerns about the building’s usability, odor and leakage.

Council members said they want upgrades or repairs completed before committing to a long-term lease. The agenda entry included language noting a potential rent arrangement referenced as "up to ten months' rent" with an $8,000 maximum, but council moved to table the item for staff and school officials to coordinate on needed improvements. Barrett Harris moved to table the lease; Debbie Johnson seconded the motion. The minutes record the motion carried 5-0.

Why it matters: A 20-year lease would affect use of a municipal facility and involve long-term commitments; council members emphasized that the city needs assurances the building will be brought up to a usable standard before formalizing terms.

Next steps: Staff were directed to coordinate with Stilwell Public Schools on the repairs and return with recommendations and cost estimates before the council considers the lease again.