Staff Writer
HOULTON — The Houlton International building will not be sold, at least not until the Shiretown Development Corporation has had time to determine the cost of removing the asbestos that is currently inside the building.
Board directors discussed the matter with Town Manager Doug Hazlett during their Oct. 9 meeting. The topic of asbestos has been plaguing the board with questions and concerns and most agree that either selling or demolishing the building would be in the corporation’s best interest.
One local businessman has repeatedly requested an audience with the SDC board of directors and was granted a brief one that evening. Peter Fitzpatrick told the board that he was interested in purchasing the building and that he did have a business plan in place, with the prospect of several employees.
“I do have a plan,” he explained. “I’m just looking to start a business.”
Fitzpatrick has been asked to present his business plan to the town manager for review.
Directors remained reluctant to do anything with the property until an cost can be given in regard to the asbestos removal. A report from the Environmental Department Agency came back saying that piping throughout the building is covered in asbestos. The toxic material would have to be removed before the building could be demolished. There is approximately 610 feet of pipe that is wrapped.
Directors continued to air their concerns as to why they were not informed of the asbestos when the SDC purchased the building more than four years ago. Chairman Paul Romanelli said he didn’t want to rehash the matter, but he was still curious as to why that information was not reported.
“I would say that (removing) 610 feet of asbestos is going to cost us a buck or two,” he remarked. “That’s going to be a considerable expense.”
Hazlett said it would be up to two weeks before he would hear back with an estimate as to what the actual cost will be.
“They’ll give us a written estimate of the cost to abate and I’ll bring that back to you,” said Hazlett.
