FAYETTE —The Fayette Select Board met Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2024, to address concerns about the potential sale of Starling Hall, with residents voicing their opposition and highlighting the building’s significance, including its role in hosting the recent “Keep Me Warm” supper that raised more than $1,600 for heating assistance.

Joan Beal, a Fayette resident, voiced her concerns, particularly regarding the impact on community events like the recent “Keep Me Warm” supper. “We were at the supper last weekend that Starling Hall put on,” she said. “I have to tell you, if you didn’t go, you missed it. If Starling Hall was not here, how could the committee for ‘Keep Me Warm’ raise over a thousand dollars? It doesn’t make sense that we can’t have a place if it gets voted to be sold, that’s all. But the supper was incredible. And you know, it’s just sad thinking about not having it anymore.”

Vice Chair Mike Carlson addressed comments circulating on social media. “There was a comment on Facebook about the dinner,” he said. “The comment said the school declined to host the ‘Keep Me Warm’ supper. That is not true. The school was not approached to host the supper. The dinner started happening at Starling Hall when COVID started because the school wasn’t available,” Carlson clarified.

Carlson also presented a check from the supper to Town Manager Mark Robinson for the ‘Keep Me Warm’ fund. Robinson explained that the fund provides assistance to residents who are ineligible for general assistance. “The ‘Keep Me Warm’ fund is for Fayette residents who need help with heating or electrical bills,” he said. “For those who are over income for general assistance, this fund helps people who may be behind on their bills or need to fill their oil tank. Don’t wait until the last minute.” He said to call him and he noted that it is confidential.

Carlson also provided updates on the town’s solid waste operations. He highlighted challenges during hazardous waste collection, noting that delays occurred when residents wanted their containers back. “Moving forward, only gas cans will be returned to prevent delays,” he said. Carlson further addressed the town’s collection of used oil. Carlson added they stopped collecting oil because the previous vendor who used to pick it up died. He said they have found a new vendor, and oil collection will resume soon.

In addition to town business, the board highlighted the start of a new quilting group at Starling Hall. The group meets every Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., providing a space for residents to work on projects and socialize.

Looking ahead, Halloween festivities are planned for Saturday, Oct. 26, at both Starling Hall and Fayette Central School. The Friends of Starling Hall will host their annual trunk or treat from 2 to 4 p.m., while Fayette Central School will hold a Halloween Party sponsored by the Fayette Underwood Library. It will include a haunted bus, games, and refreshments from 3 to 5 p.m.

As the November 5 vote on Starling Hall approaches, the board encouraged residents to stay engaged and attend future meetings to share their input. The fourth and final public hearing before November’s election will be held at the Fayette Central School starting at 7 p.m. Oct. 29.