Town shows heart in starting art barter

SOUTHBOROUGH

The town has agreed to cover the cost of utilities at the Southborough Arts Center in exchange for some of the studio fees and space for the Recreation Department.

The Arts Center approached the town for help because the utilities at the Highland Street building were becoming too expensive, Town Administrator Jean Kitchen said. A $14,550 transfer from the town’s reserve fund will pay the rest of this year’s bills, which will now be added to the town budget, Kitchen said. The utilities, which include, heat, electricity, water and telephone, will cost $25,000 next year.

The Recreation Department is expected to move into the Highland Street building from the Historical Society building behind the Town House by the end of the month, Kitchen said. Recreation will be able to host programs and events at the new location.

“It seems to be a win-win for both sides,” Kitchen said.

-- Jennifer Rosinski