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Skowhegan EDC weighs selling Renaissance Center as elevator upkeep costs mount
Summary
Board members discussed whether to sell the Renaissance Center after Director Bryan Belliveau reported elevator maintenance and operating costs of $45,479 annually and urged exploring town funding or county TIF to keep public restrooms open.
At its March 10 meeting, the Skowhegan Economic Development Corporation discussed whether to pursue sale of the Renaissance Center after the board reviewed sizable elevator maintenance and operating costs.
Chairman Matt DuBois said the board should consult the Selectboard about the possibility of transferring the building before taking further action. Patric Moore asked whether the board remained interested in selling the property; the question prompted a wider discussion of long‑term costs and financing.
Director of Economic and Community Development Bryan Belliveau provided detailed estimates for elevator maintenance and operating costs, which he put at $45,479 annually. Belliveau also outlined broader operating costs for the building and said the board would need public contribution to keep the restrooms the public uses open.
Members discussed funding options that could reduce the EDC’s annual burden. Donna McGorty and DuBois suggested exploring municipal funding or a county tax increment financing (TIF) arrangement as possible offsets. No formal motion to sell or transfer the building was taken; the board agreed that DuBois will raise the topic with the Selectboard during an upcoming meeting.
The discussion closed without a decision on disposition; the board left options open while the Selectboard is consulted and further cost details are developed.
