could result in $1.2 million in tax revenue and pave the way for the city to build a much-needed facility for storing city vehicles.
“Our analysis shows that this sale will result in more tax income for our city, and we could get a new
vehicle facility out of the deal as well,” City Manager Jim Chaousis said. “This sale fits in with our efforts to build a more fiscally responsible and effective city government, and we are recommending that the council entertain a bid on that land.”
The acreage is currently the site of the badly dilapidated, 1950s-era public service garage. “Sometimes I feel like you could push that building down with your bare hands,” Chaousis joked. But Rockland has not built a new one for years, in part, because of the high price tag for a new facility.
Rufus Williams Jr. recently sent a letter to the city council expressing interest in buying that plot where the garage now stands and repurposing the land into a warehouse and industrial production facility. Chaousis’ analysis suggests this might ultimately boost the value of the land to around $3 million,resulting in $1.2 million in tax income for Rockland over the next 20 years.
Chaousis analysis also shows that with $250,000 from the sale of the Burrows Street property combined with $500,000 in bond money previously approved by Rockland voters for a new sand/salt shed, the city could arrange to build a new, modern building next to the dump that would also house city vehicles.
“This could be a win-win for everybody,” Chaousis said. “We are always looking for ways to benefit
taxpayers and serve them better.”
FMI: James D Chaousis II, City Manager
City of Rockland
270 Pleasant Street
Rockland, ME 04841
Phone (207)593-0636
www.ci.rockland.me.us
jchaousis@ci.rockland.me.us