BARNSTABLE – If Sturgis Public Charter School is to take over the old Armory Building on South Street, they’ll have a sizable capital project on their hands.
That’s according to Barnstable Town Manager Mark Ells, who said that the school’s bid on the property was one of four the town received and the only one they currently plan on looking into.
The building was given to the town by the state, an agreement which binds the town from selling it but does allow leasing to nonprofit ventures.
Barnstable released a request for proposals earlier this year, but no matter which entity runs it, they’re going to have to bring the interior up to code, according to Ells.
“It doesn’t have updated systems in it,” he said. “Things like HVAC system, water, cleaning up any hazardous materials that may be in there.”
But the town manager said that Sturgis is seeking to lease the building long term, possibly for 30 years or more.
The plan, he said, is to turn it into a cultural and athletic center.
In the preliminary proposal, the school agreed to take on maintenance of the facility.
The next step in the process will be to meet with Sturgis officials in person, Ells said.