The fate of the Pleasant Street Center, a building constructed in 1883 with a history of municipal use, was a primary focus. The building’s appraisal at around $965,000 and its listing on both the Massachusetts Historic Registry and the National Register of Historic Places present unique challenges and opportunities for its future use. The committee considered several options, including selling, gifting, or leasing the building. The idea of leasing it to a nonprofit or for-profit entity was discussed, inspired by neighboring communities’ successful repurposing of similar spaces into arts and cultural hubs. However, any sale or lease must comply with competitive solicitation laws, which means specific preferences cannot be stated in solicitations.

Community feedback is vital as the select board leans towards leasing the property, and an online survey is planned to gather additional insights. The timeline aims for a decision by November, with the Pleasant Street Center expected to be vacant by August 2027, allowing ample time for new tenants or owners to prepare. Potential uses include a cultural center to enhance downtown engagement or a multi-use lease arrangement allowing different entities to share the space. The Reading Food Pantry expressed interest in the building, and the possibility of adaptive reuse for studio apartments was also discussed. The committee emphasized preserving the building for community benefit, considering its historical and cultural value.

In parallel, the Community Preservation Act (CPA) was another important topic. The CPA committee, formed in the summer of 2024, is ready to present its findings to the Board of Selectmen. The CPA allows municipalities to impose a surcharge on property taxes for open space, recreation, historical preservation, and affordable housing. The committee proposed a 1% surcharge, costing the average homeowner approximately $90 annually, with an exemption on the first $100,000 of property value. This could raise about a million dollars a year, benefiting recreational programming and capital improvements. If approved, the proposal could be on the agenda for the April town meeting, and a town-wide vote could occur in November. A permanent Community Preservation Committee would be established, with the first funds distribution anticipated by July 2028.

The conversation included the potential distribution of CPA funds, which would be decided by the Select Board with input from representatives of recreation, housing, and open space. The CPA’s impact on town funding was highlighted, noting that Reading previously voted against the CPA over 20 years ago, resulting in lost funding opportunities. Adopting the CPA could free up existing funds for other uses, aligning with the town’s current spending on eligible projects.

Beyond these discussions, the committee explored various community engagement initiatives. The proposed “Let Them Grow” program aims to foster independence among children aged nine to sixteen through simple tasks and community interaction, with collaboration from the school department and local police. Additionally, a youth engagement program inspired by a successful initiative in Newberry Port was discussed. This program would involve children completing challenges to earn rewards, emphasizing social benefits and collaboration with local entities.

The committee also addressed operational aspects of recreational facilities. The committee announced significant interest in summer programs, with 675 registrations on the first day alone. The summer program’s relocation to Barrows ensures access to gym facilities throughout the season, supporting continuity despite maintenance work at Cool Wish. The pickleball project is progressing, with construction bids due soon. Field fees are under review for the first time in over 20 years, with proposed increases to support maintenance and improvements.

Lastly, the committee discussed issues at Driscoll Field, where light poles were recently removed due to safety concerns. The removal was completed at minimal cost, supported by a $25,000 insurance reimbursement. Future lighting improvements, estimated at $450,000, were shared with the Finance Committee for potential funding requests.