LEWISTON – Five County Credit Union, a financial institution that will operate as a full-service branch at 95 Park St. in the near future, is donating the cost of a podium audio display for the city of Lewiston’s 1891 E. Howard Timepiece Relocation Project.

The clock had formerly been in City Hall’s building tower and was restored by Balzer Family Clock Works in 2002. Over the last several months, the Lewiston Youth Advisory Council, in partnership with Councilor Norm Rousseau, has had a fund-raising campaign to site the timepiece as a multi-level historical attraction at Lewiston City Hall. More than $25,000 has been raised in that effort.

To complement the working timepiece, the youth council has also been seeking funding opportunities for an accompanying podium audio display that would enable visitors to read and hear about the clock’s history, restoration and relocation project.

When Five County Credit Union started exploring ways to become involved in its new community, the clock project caught the attention of Jennifer DeChant, marketing specialist.

DeChant said, “We were impressed with how hard the Lewiston Youth Advisory Council has worked to have the 1891 E. Howard timepiece relocated. We found their pride, hard work and commitment to the community more than worthy of such an investment. We celebrate their accomplishments and this project that will be enjoyed by current and future generations.”

Youth Council Chairwoman Tarrah Bowen said, “LYAC greatly appreciates the generosity of Five County Credit Union. Their donation will not only enhance the community today but will positively impact generations to come.”

Rousseau added, “This audio-visual aid will be a tremendous complement to the clock project. It will be very educational for those visiting City Hall, providing a means to learn more about this important historical piece of our community.”

Construction at City Hall is under way for the clock relocation project, and on completion, the glass-encased working mechanisms will be located on the second-floor landing with a working 14-foot pendulum, also encased in glass, extending through the floor to the Pine Street entrance. A rod will connect the clock works to the clock faces in the building’s tower to display the correct time. Completion of the project is expected by early July.

The cost of the donated podium audio display is estimated to be $1,600.

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