Special Town Meeting Approved for Youth Center Vote

Andover voters will be meeting in December, once again, for a Special Town Meeting to vote on the construction of the proposed Cormier Youth Center. Selectmen voted 5-0 last night in favor of a Monday, Dec. 5 Special Town Meeting. 

The board discussed the issue briefly before taking the unanimous vote, which also outlined a Nov. 4 date to close the warrant. Specifically, voters will be asked to support or oppose a $2 million bond to cover the remaining costs of the proposed $4 million Cormier Youth Center, which would sit behind . 

According to Andover Youth Services, $2 million has already been raised privately for the new youth center. The remaining $2 million bonded over a 20-year period would cost the average homeowner between $11 and $14 each year until the bond is paid off, according to AYS.

The youth center would comprise a 20,000 square foot building, consisting of activity rooms, conference rooms, multipurpose performance space and a gym. 

Before the warrant closes on Nov. 4, other warrant articles can be submitted on the Dec. 5 Special Town Meeting warrant. According to selectman Alex Vispoli, the town is planning to include a couple warrant articles addressing minor housekeeping issues, one regarding a town bylaw change.