Science Center acquisition

A Science Center board member presented over 90 pages of progress documents, saying the project has funding, approvals and a design and needs the town's partnership to proceed.

The project's construction manager said a structural engineer found the building sound, schedules align with the town square project, and the project cannot move without town support.

A resident rebutted criticisms of the Science Center, questioned the rush toward eminent domain, and asked the board to set a six-to-eight-month deadline instead.

Speaking by Zoom, she demanded answers on acquisition funding sources, bonding, plans for the property, and the final town square cost before the board acts.

Asked whether eminent domain would come with a public hearing, questioned who the alternative occupant would be, and suggested any hotel be relocated westward if condemnation proceeds.

Criticized the board's treatment of Science Center volunteers, cited a claimed $10 million town square funding deficit, and called the acquisition an outrageous quid pro quo.

Returned during open comments with Lucy Barnes, offering the 90 pages of proof and asking the board to meet Thursday; warned the vote disrupts the Science Center's financing.

The Science Center's architect, joining by phone, explained the complex multi-site coordination required before filing site plans and asked for the opportunity to proceed.