RSU 09 plans March public hearing and March 25 town votes on Ingalls purchase using Maine Connectivity Authority funds

The board reviewed a draft plan to initiate a referendum to acquire the Ingalls building and make it a regional technology and adult-education hub using Maine Connectivity Authority infrastructure grant funds. The superintendent said the board would vote to initiate the referendum at its Feb. 11 meeting, hold a public hearing on March 11 (6 p.m., with the board meeting following at 7 p.m.), and that participating towns would vote on March 25; the board would then declare official results on April 8.

The superintendent emphasized that the purchase would be funded by Adult Education/Connectivity grant funds and would not come from RSU 09 operating budget. Board members asked whether the proposed grant (not to exceed $1.6 million as drafted) had been finalized and whether any additional renovation costs remained; the superintendent said the building is largely remodeled, with an expected roughly $100,000–$150,000 in minor adjustments and said an offer has been made but the purchase is contingent on grant availability and public approval.

Board members suggested refining the referendum language to place the grant source and project purpose more prominently so voters understand the Connectivity Authority funding and the building’s role as a technology hub serving adult education and community needs. The superintendent said she would revise the draft question, consult the district attorney and circulate an updated version before the Feb. 11 vote.