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Residents back CDBG application to update the “Bates” barn
Summary
At an Oct. 29, 2025 public hearing the Town of Seward board heard support for pursuing a Community Development Block Grant to fund electricity, water and sewage upgrades to the historic “Bates” barn; board members raised maintenance responsibilities if the grant is awarded.
Town of Seward officials and residents discussed a proposed Community Development Block Grant application for improvements to the “Bates” barn at a public hearing Oct. 29, 2025.
Councilwoman Wendy Adams Rosa, who opened the CDBG public hearing at 5:32 p.m., described the grant process and said the proposed project is the “Bates” barn, citing planned upgrades including electricity, water and sewage connections. Residents Angela Clapper and Duane Spaulding spoke in favor of the town pursuing the grant application. Councilman William Harlow cautioned that, should the town receive the grant and complete the improvements, the town would assume perpetual maintenance obligations for the building. Resident Judy Moore asked whether town residents would have an opportunity for input after a grant award; the board advised that such an opportunity would be available.
The board unanimously closed the CDBG public hearing at 5:45 p.m. and did not take a formal vote on applying for the grant at that session. The board’s discussion focused on project scope (utilities and sewage) and on tradeoffs between securing outside funding and the town’s long-term maintenance responsibilities if the work proceeds.
