Westborough approves $1.13M transfer to advance community‑center phase‑1 design; debate centers on purchase, scope and cost

Westborough voters on Oct. 21 authorized a $1,131,413 transfer from the Del Webb Chauncey Lake stabilization fund to complete design development for Phase 1 of the town’s community‑center fit‑up, a project that would convert the former Boston Sports Club building to a mixed community and senior center. The transfer passed 189–184 after nearly two hours of public comment and debate.

Town Manager Christie Williams described Phase 1 as focusing on the lower‑level senior center fit‑up and associated life‑safety work; she cited a preliminary Phase‑1 construction estimate for the senior portion of roughly $9,450,000 and said the requested money would produce bid‑ready documents and allow the town to return for a construction appropriation. Williams said the stabilization fund used for the transfer was created through mitigation tied to the Del Webb development and is intended to support affordable‑housing and senior projects.

Opponents questioned the purchase process, the absence of a full lifecycle cost projection for all phases and whether stabilization funds should be diverted from housing‑directed uses. Resident Ian Joe Considine said: "I vote no, and I'd say we should sell the building." Supporters pointed to senior‑center needs and the phased approach; a pro‑article speaker urged that not proceeding would leave the existing senior center in place and the lower level vacant. The moderator noted the transfer required only a majority (the stabilization fund transfer does not require a two‑thirds zoning threshold).

Next steps: the municipal building committee and town staff will complete design development, prepare bid documents and return to a future town meeting for construction appropriation. The town indicated the project will pursue potential rebates (for rooftop HVAC replacement) and identified grant opportunities for generator funding for emergency‑shelter capability.