Rockland council OKs MBNA building lease

ROCKLAND – The City Council has voted to approve a lease with MBNA for use of a waterfront building last owned by Courier Publications.

The council’s approval of the lease Monday night won’t become final until a second vote after a public hearing on May 12.

City Clerk Stuart Sylvester said the lease will give the city control of the two-level brick building for up to 10 years, but that a purchase option is included in the deal. MBNA has agreed to spend up to $800,000 renovating a portion of the lower level for use as a new police station.

In return, the city will make annual payments of up to $150,000 – the amount depends on how much the renovations cost – for five years. The lease has a provision allowing it to be renewed for another five years.

The city also has the right to buy the building for a price that is less than full-market value.

The city must get MBNA’s permission to sublet the remainder of the building, Sylvester said. Some of the ideas being discussed for the rest of the building include offices for the Rockland-Thomaston Area Chamber of Commerce, housing the city’s lighthouse collection and a welcome center for tourists.