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Scantic River Artisans ask to store art, stage shows at Hampden town hall
Summary
Representatives of the Scantic River Artisans asked the Select Board to reserve shared storage and event access at the renovated Thornton Burgess town hall; the board asked them to file the facility-use application and noted insurance and a refundable security deposit would be required.
Representatives of the Scantic River Artisans presented a proposal on April 27 to use part of the renovated Thornton Burgess/town hall complex as a home base for storage and staging for their quarterly shows.
"So Nan Hurlburt, myself, Laura Solerino for the Scantic River Artisans, we had talked to you guys... about having some sort of a space... for the Scantic River Artisans," said Laura Solerino, who identified herself in the record as representing the group. The artisans asked for space to store frames, folding walls and pedestals and to set up on the day before shows; they noted typical events run Friday setup, Saturday show and Sunday breakdown.
Board members discussed logistics including shared storage versus a dedicated room, security and access (a guest fob for setup was suggested), air-conditioning limitations for summer shows, and insurance requirements. Staff said nonprofit groups would not be charged user fees but would likely need insurance and a refundable security deposit; staff mentioned a $100 refundable deposit is their standard for small events and that insurance options can be purchased affordably for weekend events.
The board asked the artisans to submit the town’s facility-use application and proposed event schedule so staff could block dates and review capacity, insurance and any necessary deposits. Facilities manager input (Herb) and coordination with the library and senior center schedules were requested to avoid conflicts.
The artisans indicated they would not require space until after the October town meeting and aimed to use the facility beginning with their February show. The board said it was generally supportive but would finalize details — access, insurance proof and exact space allocation — after receiving the formal application.
Next steps: the Scantic River Artisans will submit the use application and a proposed schedule to town staff; the board will review specific dates, confirm required insurance/security deposits and coordinate access with facilities management.
