Staff Writer
PRESQUE ISLE – The Presque Isle Indoor Pool will be undergoing some upgrades in an effort to reduce expenses.
The pool had been the source of debate between city councilors this summer, as discussion continued on ways to reduce city expenses. Council had talked of the possibility of SAD 1 taking over both the Forum and the pool, but when city officials met with members of the School Board, it was determined the school was not interested in acquiring either structure. Council continued to seek ways to reduce costs at the pool and requested City Manager Tom Stevens look for ways to do so.
Stevens contacted Honeywell, the company the city worked with on retrofitting the Forum, to see what could be done for the pool.
“We’re working with Honeywell on a retrofitting project at the Indoor Pool. When the company dig upgrades to the Forum, we realized about $15,000 in savings annually – with upgraded lights, etc. We’re hoping to do likewise at the pool,” said Stevens.
With rising energy costs squeezing budgets for all the city’s departments, Stevens hopes Honeywell can help improve the pool’s efficiency, reducing its expenditures.
During the Sept. 3 session, Council voted to:
• Approve an automobile graveyard permit for Fred Bonville, d/b/a Fred’s Auto, 204 Chapman Rd., with conditions;
• Approved an automobile graveyard and junkyard permit for Geary S. Bonville, d/b/a G.S. Bonville and Son, 228 Chapman Rd., with conditions;
• Approved an automobile graveyard and junkyard permit for Timothy Cowett, d/b/a Cowett’s Used Auto Parts, 75 Davis St.;
• Approved an automobile recycling permit for Timothy Cowett, d/b/a Cowett’s Used Auto Parts, 75 Davis St.;
• Considered adopting a garage sale sign ordinance, first hearing;
• Approved a special amusement permit for dancing and entertainment for Northern Maine Restaurant and Brewing Company, LLC, d/b/a Slopes, 150 Maysville St.;
• Approved the recommendations from the management audit; and
• Approved consent agenda items, including Council minutes from July 21 and Aug. 4 meetings.
The next City Council meeting will be held at 6 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 6, at City Hall. Sessions are open to all and the public is encouraged to participate. For information, contact 764-4485.
