The Economic Development Committee began the process of seeking proposals for the Martin Center on Monday following a company's redevelopment suggestion for the property.
The committee voted 2-1 to put out a request for proposals for reusing the Martin Center, with the stipulation that the plan should discuss the impact on existing services at the site. The building includes the Senior Center and other city offices, including the Department of Public Utilities and Recreation Department.
Lewis Brown, vice president of the Vesta Corporation, said in a May letter to Mayor Daryl Finizio that the company would be interested in purchasing the Martin Center as part of a redevelopment plan for the property. Brown said the plan would require funding from multiple sources.
Brown said at Monday's meeting that the plan would add 46 to 50 one or two bedroom residential units in the Martin Center. Vesta Corporation also owns Winthrop Square Apartments and Londonberry Gardens in New London.
Council President Michael Passero supported an RFP process, but said he would prefer if the city was able to redevelop the center as part of its capital plan.
"Unfortunately, lacking the financial ability to do that, I think it's incumbent upon us to find a good steward for that building," he said.
Councilor John Maynard, who opposed the plan, said he did not want the city to consider selling the building where the Senior Center is located. Councilor Adam Sprecace, chair of the committee, said the RFP process would not bind the city to any action.
"I don't think it hurts to get all the information that we can," he said.
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