Council approves filing of $1.05 million CDBG application for Wally School and East Bay food pantry renovations

The Town Council adopted a resolution authorizing submission of a FY2025 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) application totaling $1,050,000 to the state, covering two proposed projects: $800,000 for continued restoration of the Wally School building for a community senior resource center, and $250,000 to renovate the food pantry area at the East Bay Food Pantry and thrift shop.

Diane Williamson, who presented the request, said the town had worked with the food pantry and that the CDBG program manager, Bob Plain, was available to answer technical questions. The council opened and closed a public hearing without speakers present opposing the application.

Councilors voted by voice to adopt the resolution authorizing the town administrator to file the application; the motion was made by Tony and seconded by Mary. No roll‑call tally was recorded in the transcript; the chair called for “Aye” and recorded no opposition.

A letter from Sandra Darling was noted as received and placed on the council dais. Diane Williamson and the CDBG program manager said the grant, if awarded, would fund design and construction work under stated CDBG rules and that the town would handle matching and administrative responsibilities as required.

Approval authorizes staff to proceed with the application; award and funding remain contingent on the state grant decision and any required contract or reporting conditions attached to CDBG funds.

Staff indicated they would return with any required notifications and next steps if the grant is awarded.