FARMINGTON — Franklin County Facilities Committee members plan to review space on Thursday at 374 High St. to see if it would meet the needs of county registries of deeds and probate.
The county had requested proposals for available space in the area to move the two registries to ease space constraints and environmental concerns.
Voters countywide overwhelmingly rejected a $4.46 million bond referendum in November to improve quarters for county offices at the courthouse and Sheriff Department.
Proposals are expected to be aired in February for lower-cost options to alleviate the deficiencies in both places.
County Clerk Julie Magoon gave commissioners a spreadsheet on Tuesday of the five property options that have been submitted.
The top runner so far, she said, is Cousineau Properties, the former Farmington Shoe manufacturing plant at 374 High St.
There is 23,285 square feet available of open space on a first floor slab.
Foster Regional Applied Technology Center is also holding classes there while Mt. Blue High School and Tech Center is being renovated.
If the county moves the registries out of the courthouse, the Franklin County District Attorney’s Office would be able to move up from the ground level. Air quality has been a concern over the last several years due to dampness and other factors.
Other space submitted for review was 407 Wilton Road, Farmington, Church Street Commons, Mt. Blue Shopping Center and 218 Fairbanks Road.
dperry@sunjournal.com
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