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ICC board asks Stonington for extra year to complete gym building acquisition
Summary
The Island Community Center board told the Selectmen it cannot take possession of a gym building and land this year because of COVID-related fundraising and due-diligence delays; Selectmen said they would review the ICC’s finances and rental agreement before deciding whether to require a town-meeting vote.
Stonington — The Island Community Center (ICC) board told town officials it needs more time to complete a planned acquisition of a gym building and adjacent land.
Phil Elkin, speaking for the ICC board, said the group has been active for 18 years, has completed many projects and now faces COVID-related setbacks in fundraising and capacity. "We are not able at this time to take possession of the building and land this year," Elkin said, and the ICC asked the Selectmen for a one-year extension to settle financing, surveying and acquisition-related work.
Town Manager (TM) Billings said the ICC is exploring adding staff positions — including a development professional to pursue grants and fundraising — and that the group's operating budget could rise toward $500,000 once capital and staffing plans are included. Selectman Evelyn Duncan asked for detailed financials; the board agreed to revisit the matter after reviewing the ICC's updated finances and the town’s rental agreement to determine whether a town-meeting appropriation or formal vote would be required.
Why it matters: The ICC operates community services and its acquisition of a public-facing facility could affect town space, budgets and long-term maintenance obligations.
What’s next: The Selectmen asked the ICC to provide financial documentation and to clarify the acquisition timetable. The board did not take immediate action at the meeting and left the request pending further review.
