PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — The option to lease at former Maine Potato Growers, Inc. office building as a new facility for City Hall, has an upcoming deadline of Monday, June 15. At Monday night’s regular monthly meeting, City Council members shared their opinions and members of the community in attendance at the meeting shared their thoughts as well.
“It seems to me your better option in this is to stay where you are,” said Michael MacPherson, a Presque Isle resident. “I’d hate to see this building torn down or changed. It has served you well.”
With opinions swaying between staying in their current location, leasing or owning a new facility, councilors discussed the fire marshal report pertaining to City Hall. In order to bring the facility up to code, fire escapes must be inspected and certified by an engineer, a fire alarm system must be installed and fire doors must be reinstalled on all three levels. Cost estimates for these three things total between $60,000 and $70,000, at a maximum.
“We need to be responsible with your money,” Council Chair Emily Smith said. “Being responsible with your money doesn’t mean putting it in an inefficient workplace. I believe as soon as we can, we should purchase.”
In addition to the discussion, Councilor Craig Green created a letter for both the Council and citizens to read and follow. The letter included his analysis on City Hall and items of concern to him. He raised questions concerning cost of moving, necessary space, location and a buyer for City Hall.
“It’s huge; it’s a big decision. But I feel like being responsible with your money is what we need to focus on,” Green said.
Patiently awaiting the completion of the Community Center, the Council was unable to come to a decision about the relocation of City Hall. The council will meet Monday, June 8, to vote on the matter.
In other business, councilors unanimously voted in favor of amending the Employee Handbook at Monday night’s meeting. The amendment will give the city manager the ability to offer more vacation time, pertaining to only non-union positions. City Manager Jim Bennett believes offering an additional week of vacation will be helpful in recruiting new candidates and future employees.
