Select board votes 3–1 to halt fundraising for 1856 Academy while town explores options

The Monmouth Select Board voted 3–1 to ask the 18 56 committee to stop soliciting donations or applying for grants until the town learns whether a 501(c)(3) will be established or voters decide whether to dispose of the historic 1856 Academy.

Select board member (speaker 8) moved the measure, saying the committee should not seek ‘‘funding, be it donations or grants … until we have an answer as to whether a 501(c)(3) is going to be established or the voters vote in November to dispose of the building.’’ The motion was seconded and passed by the board, with the chair announcing a 3–1 vote in favor. The board framed the pause as a way to avoid soliciting funds under uncertain future ownership or policy outcomes.

The motion followed more than three hours of public comment in which residents offered contrasting proposals: some urged selling the property and returning it to the tax rolls, while others pressed for a nonprofit or long‑term lease to preserve the building. At the vote the board emphasized the need for legal clarity and for the 18 56 committee to present a clear plan if it seeks to continue fundraising.

Board members also flagged multiple outstanding legal and accounting questions that town staff and the town attorney must resolve before a final decision. The chair said the select board will expect the 18 56 committee to report back on whether it will pursue nonprofit status before the town finalizes any warrant language for the November ballot.

The approved motion does not sell or transfer any property; it only halts active solicitation of new funds. The board then adjourned the meeting.