Developer pitches market‑rate conversion of New Market Community Center; residents urge preserving community use

Ed Gaskins, representing Echelon Resources, presented a plan to convert the New Market Community Center into market‑rate apartments and described the company's approach to rehabilitating historic buildings using tax credits. Gaskins said the firm often acquires properties for a nominal price "it is a nominal cost of $1. They have agreed to reimburse the Town at $7500 for transactional costs," and noted designs would follow Virginia Department of Historic Resources and National Park Service requirements.

Residents and former Community Center board members countered that the building had been conveyed with the expectation it remain a community asset. Larry Bompiani told the Council he was "very disappointed that they are even considering this offer," argued that previously committed ARPA and Brownfields funds should be stewarded for community uses, and warned of parking conflicts with Rebel Field events if apartments are placed adjacent to the ballfield. Council members and staff noted feasibility estimates for a full renovation could be in the $6–8 million range and that limited grant funding had been identified to cover that scale of work.

Council did not vote on a sale or contract; the developer presentation and citizen input were received as part of the regular agenda. Councilmembers encouraged more public discussion and suggested forming a community group to work on the center's future before any final decision is made.