WESTBOROUGH – A transfer request of $1,131,413 to further develop plans for the Community Center was approved in a close vote at the Special Fall Town Meeting on Monday, Oct. 21.
Article 9 asked for these funds to further design and prepare bid documents for Phase 1 of the project (the building of a Senior Center on the first floor); and further develop designs for Phase 2 (Recreation Department and a possible temporary space for the Westborough Public Library) and possible future phases.
The funds would come from the Del Webb Chauncy Lake Stabilization Fund.
After nearly one hour of debate, the article passed, 189-184.
In addition to a Senior Center, the first floor would include offices, a kitchen and, at some time in the future, a performance space.
Projected costs for Phase 1, including construction and contingency, could total around $12 million. However, the price tag could change depending on what could be removed from the plans.
Several residents spoke against the proposed plans for the center. Joe Considine questioned whether the town did its due diligence when it purchased the site in 2023; another resident said the Del Webb funds should not be used for “recreation.”
“The building is a dilapidated dump,” said Dom Caprioli, adding that the town was “conned” into buying the site. He requested that the design costs be modified to $800,000.
Daniel Schur asked about how many people would use the Community Center.
Carolyn Spring said the present Senior Center should be converted into senior housing.
Others spoke in favor. Peter Dunbeck said purchasing the center was a “good decision,” along with the decision to go with at least two phases.