Public to gather in Town Hall from 7pm
It's time to have an open discussion about Manxonia House according to the chair of Port St Mary Commissioners, Dr Michelle Haywood.
A prominent building on the high street, it's been a source of disquiet within the community, with some residents expressing concern about how much it cost the authority.
Questions have also been raised over how the board purchased the disused former school for £190,000, and whether this was linked to a recent 5.2 % rate rise.
Dr Haywood, who was elected chair at the commissioner's annual general meeting in May, says the board is divided on a way forward for Manxonia.
It was first purchased so the commissioners could move offices into the building from the Town Hall, with a retail area and residential flat on the first floor also planned.
But 'creeping' costs required to make the building fit for purpose, including securing the roof and re-rendering the walls, have caused some board members to wonder whether Manxonia is now a liability rather than an asset.
A public meeting to discuss the site will be held from 7pm on Monday (25 June) at the Town Hall, following a request by Port St Mary Business Association.
Members, many of whom have financial backgrounds, want to hear the commissioners' plans for Manxonia and the Town Hall.
Dr Haywood agrees it's time to take stock, gauge the public's views and agree on a 'right way' forward.
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