Board tables developer-backed sports dome grant application after extended questions about contracts, risk and town obligations

The board devoted its longest discussion of the Dec. 16 meeting to a developer proposal (DOMX Development LLC) for a regional indoor sports complex and a town-hosted CIF grant application. First Selectman Bob Carlson explained the project concept, the host‑town requirement for the grant application, and the developer’s request that the town pass a resolution supporting submission.

Carlson said the project as described would be located on privately owned land in North Stonington and that DOMX had asked the town to file a resolution supporting the submission of a $25 million CIF application as the host town for a roughly $47–50 million project. He read a draft resolution stating that DOMX would “bear all costs associated with the preparation, submission and administration of such grant application” and said the town would not be asked to expend municipal funds for construction.

Board members and residents raised detailed questions about: the scope and staging of the project (the “bubble” footprint, ancillary uses such as restaurants or an arcade), who would administer grant billing and reimbursement, whether the town staff time would be reimbursed, what contractual protections would prevent the town from being financially or operationally disadvantaged, revenue‑sharing and usage priorities for local recreation and schools, traffic and water impacts, developer track record and due diligence on DOMX, and the timing and potential need for a town referendum.

Questions from residents and selectmen included whether the developer could sell the complex in the future (and how that would affect tax revenue), whether the state might award less than the full requested amount, and whether the town would be responsible for administration costs or other obligations if the project changed over time. Several residents urged transparency and careful contract language to protect town interests.

After extended discussion and requests to consult the town attorney and get more detail from the developer on reimbursement, administration, and binding contract terms, First Selectman Carlson moved to table the CIF grant resolution and associated action items until the Jan. 6 meeting; the motion was seconded and passed by voice vote. The board directed staff to consult the town attorney and to obtain additional documentation and commitments from DOMX before the Jan. 6 meeting.

Why it matters: If pursued, the CIF grant application and the project could bring tax revenue and regional recreation opportunities to North Stonington, but board members and residents flagged unresolved legal, fiscal, and infrastructure risks. The town took the cautious step of tabling the resolution to allow legal review and further negotiation.