ICC board asks Stonington selectmen for another year to pursue gym-building acquisition

The Isle au Haut Community board asked the Stonington Board of Selectmen on Dec. 14 for a one‑year extension to complete the acquisition of a gym building and adjacent land.

The ICC, represented by board chair Phil Elkin and Jeannie Hatch, told the board the nonprofit has been active for 18 years but the pandemic has disrupted meetings, fundraising and the timing of capital work. Elkin said the board needs time to finalize a financial plan, secure surveys and confirm whether a town meeting vote will be necessary to complete the transfer.

Town Manager Kathleen (Billings) told selectmen the ICC’s budget planning now contemplates hiring development staff and that a full operating budget, including capital fundraising, could reach about $500,000 if the nonprofit adds paid positions to pursue grants and donations. Selectmen asked the ICC to provide financial statements and to let the town review the current rental agreement and any proposed extension terms before making a decision.

The board did not take immediate action on the request; members agreed to meet again after receiving ICC financials and after staff had reviewed the rental agreement to determine whether a town‑meeting vote would be required.

The request is pending; the selectmen’s next steps are to review the ICC’s financial documents and return the item for further consideration.