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Keene board hears World Figure Sports Society proposal for community center; Board will review building condition before deciding
Summary
World Figure Sports Society representatives asked to meet March 11 about a possible partnership to convert the Community Center into mixed museum, classes and refrigerated rink space. Board members said they need cost estimates and a building assessment before pursuing an RFP or partnership.
Councilmember Ann Hough presented materials about a potential partnership with the World Figure Sports Society (WFS) and said WFS representatives — Karen Cortland Kelly and Patrick Kelly — have asked to meet the Board on March 11 to outline a proposal for museum, classroom and rink programming at the Community Center.
Board members emphasized the need for a condition assessment and cost estimates before committing. "We need real numbers before we decide on anything," Councilmember Teresa Cheetham‑Palen said during the discussion. Councilmember Robert Biesemeyer advised the Board it would be premature to issue an RFP until the Board knows whether to repair the existing structure or replace it; he said a partnership would likely only work if an outside partner funds most of the work. Ann Hough said she will keep the WFS meeting on hold until the Board completes a building review.
Attachments submitted with the minutes describe WFS as a 501(c)(3) proposing classes in fine and performing arts, costume and culinary arts, and a permanent refrigerated 'black ice' rink; the materials include bios for Karen Cortland Kelly (former U.S. silver medalist in figure skating) and Patrick Kelly (former Canadian Olympic finalist in speed skating). The Board did not vote on the proposal and directed staff to pursue building condition information and cost estimates before further steps.
