OTISFIELD — A steering committee has been established to discuss the future of the Community Hall through a series of free community luncheons.

The building on Route 121 in East Otisfield is only open in the warm months for activities such as craft fairs, church sales and wedding receptions. Local school children also used the space for activities.

This year, for the first time in several years, the hall was used for the annual town meeting.

“The response was overwhelming,” said Selectman Rick Micklon of the town meeting move from the Otisfield Community School back to the community hall. “It takes us back to our old town meetings.”

Micklon said money has been set aside in the new fiscal year budget for a metal roof and six new windows. The cost of the roof is estimated to be between $8,000 to $10,000, and the windows about $3,000. The town wants the hall available for year-round use, he said.

The idea for the community luncheons to flesh out ideas came from a few members of the East Otisfield Free Baptist Church. They decided to ask residents what they saw as needs within the community, and the result was the desire to build more of a sense of community.

Pastor Genise Knowlton said in a statement that other needs identified dealt with issues such as socialization, isolation and transportation.

“It became evident that in these times of economic and social uncertainties, it would be beneficial to find a way in which we, as a community, could address the needs together,” she said.

To that end, the group decided to hold monthly luncheons at the hall from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Wednesdays, Aug. 10, Sept. 14 and Oct. 12. Salad, sandwiches, dessert, beverages and entertainment will be provided without cost to attendees, Knowlton said. Participants are encouraged to bring their favorite card or board game.

“There was a time, in the not so distant past, when this was the center where town folks met at least for annual town meeting and shared a meal and friendship with each other. As we know our world has changed and community visitations are on the decline,” she said.

Knowlton said the steering committee members are Scott Burke, Nancy Coombs, Sharon Matthews, David Watson and Elaine Doble-Verrill.

Reservations for the free luncheons are requested but not required. To make a reservation call Nancy Coombs at 627-4374.

Elaine Doble-Verrill is coordinating volunteers for such things as food, setup/cleanup and serving at the luncheons, transportation and public relations. Interested volunteers should call her at 539-4846 or email her at doblever@fairpoint.net.

Sharon Matthews is the one to call for entertainment/socialization ideas or to volunteer to entertain. She may be reached at the Town Office by calling 539-2664.

“Momentum and excitement is building as various members of the community have stepped up to offer their gifts and talents to the effort to build a stronger sense of community and neighborly concern for each other. We hope you will join us by either attending and/or volunteering in this partnership project,” Knowlton said.

ldixon@sunjournal.com

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