How was the architect chosen?

The architect was chosen through a Request For Qualifications (RFQ) process. Two hundred letters and emails were sent out to various firms and groups in addition to ads being placed in newspapers across the state. Groups that were interested in bidding were invited to send general information about their firm and the services they provide. We narrowed down the list of respondents based on certain criteria and scheduled interviews with six firms. After meeting with representatives from each of the six firms, we consulted the Bureau of General Services for the State of Maine, which assists in school building projects. In the end, Design Group Collaborative Architects (DGC) most closely matched the skills and qualifications we were seeking.

Wasn’t there any local talent to choose from?

No local talent applied.

How was the design chosen?

The design was developed through a series of meetings and panel discussions regarding the required (as well as desired) elements of a new, more functional arts space that included music, theatre, dance and visual space in one location. The primary design was based on the objective of enlarging the space as much as possible, but remaining within the $5 million project goal.

Why is it going to be attached to the high school? Why won’t there be a separate building?

The most efficient use of our present space is to use the present auditorium as a focal point. Added rehearsal and storage areas will all support the primary performance space. A stand-alone auditorium would be extremely costly to design and construct, and a separate building would not allow for efficient use of present space for current programs involving HHS students and faculty.

How much is the entire project going to cost?

The addition and upgrades to the auditorium will cost $5 million.

Why does the project cost so much? What is included?

The $5 million figure is based primarily on current construction costs. New construction averages approximately $200 per square foot. The new facility will consist of 13,000 square feet of new space. The project also encompasses costs for the renovation of the existing space.

How can you spend $5 million and not significantly change how the auditorium looks presently or how many people it holds?

Careful cost analysis guided our decision to keep the auditorium at its present size and location. Building a new larger auditorium would have pushed the budget higher than the $5 million goal. The present auditorium has some very positive key elements such as:

• Considerable seating capacity
• Ample wing space
• Flexible orchestra pit usage
• Updated sound system
• Electrical systems for stage lighting.

Renovated auditorium space will include:

• New entry vestibules to the auditorium that will separate the concert space from the main hallway
• New flexible seating configuration that will allow for more seating
• Stage performance space that will be expanded to allow additional side wing space and greater depth
• Better storage options for the back stage area

Why should I pay for more classroom space?

Current music, arts and community programs will all benefit from the new Community Arts Center. Additional classroom and rehearsal space will free up the auditorium for arts related activities and performances that will bring greater cultural enrichment as well as generate revenue. Many community and educational programs that regularly make use of the space will have greater flexibility and access as well.

Why should we spend so much money on a new facility when the music program is so successful in the one we have?

The music program is successful due to the extra effort and dedication on behalf of the staff members who make sure that scheduling and rehearsals run smoothly. More than thirty ensembles and organizations regularly share the limited space and are frequently turned down due to scheduling conflicts. These limitations are compromising the advancement of the music department as well as students and community members.

How do you plan to raise the money?

Funds will be raised through the efforts of the Houlton Community Arts Center Council, a private 501(C)(3) organization comprised of various community leaders that are committed to making the vision of this project a reality. HCACC has contracted the services of BHC Consulting Group, fundraising consultants which are guiding the HCACC Fundraising Committee in organizing a capital campaign plan. The goal of the HCACC is to create a collaborative private/public partnership to raise the funds over the next 24 months.

Why a public-private collaboration? Will it increase my taxes?

The HCACC fundraising plan calls for a public/private partnership in an effort to raise the necessary funds. These types of partnerships have seen great success in Maine over the last few years. Our goal is to raise $2.5 million privately and secure the remaining $2.5 million through a $5 million bond that will be recommended and supported by the school system. Through this type of partnership, the entire project goal will not be left to any one organization, person or entity. A portion of the bond will also include necessary renovations to the school that will be completed immediately but paid for over time using the present budget structure.

Why is there an expectation that the taxpayers should pay more for the building when we already pay taxes that go toward the school budget?

This purpose of this project is to establish a Community Arts Center. The present school budget can not sustain the costs of a significant building transformation. A public/ private partnership is necessary to advance this project and create a facility that is commensurate with the high level of arts excellence that students and residents have come to expect from the greater Southern Aroostook community.

I already support the school with my tax dollars so why should I be expected to donate privately to this project?

Private donations are necessary to advance the Community Arts Center project as the existing school budget alone does not include the necessary funds to support a venture of this magnitude. All donations are tax deductible and will receive proper recognition.

Why not propose a bond that will cover the entire amount?

The success of other public-private partnerships made the decision an easy one. This way, the entire project goal will not be left to any one organization, person or entity.

How much money has been raised to date?

More than 10 % of our private goal has already been raised through the efforts of our dedicated campaign committee and other private donations.

What happens to my money if you don’t raise the necessary funds to complete the project?

The goal has always been to raise money for the fine arts wing of Houlton High School. Any funds raised will be used to improve the facility.

Have the School Board and the Town Council endorsed the project?

The School Board fully supports the Houlton Community Arts Center, and has signed an agreement to partner with us on the project. We have not received formal Town Council support but plan to make a formal presentation in the near future. The Town Manager is also part of the Fundraising Committee.

How are the Alumni Association and Music Boosters involved?

The MSAD #29 Music Boosters began the process to develop the project. They invested time, effort and money to create the original concept. After supporting project through the initial stages, the boosters developed a partnership with the Alumni Association to assist them in handling the financial aspects of the fundraising plan. The Alumni Association received funds, tracked donors and supported the project through donations to begin the architectural process. The Alumni Association also assisted in contracting the services of a professional fundraising firm.

Will there be any support from the State for this kind of investment when they are already consolidating and cutting back?

Currently there is no available financial support from the state. The State of Maine Bureau of General Services, which oversees school projects, offered their expertise and support in the beginning stages. Any consolidation and cutbacks have not yet been defined for our school system.

I don’t have any children in the school system so what’s in this project for me?

An enhanced facility brings more arts programming for all of the Southern Aroostook area to enjoy. There will also be greater economic development opportunities in the future once the project is complete.

How many true public events are held in this facility? Will this become a venue for large traveling performances?

There are currently twelve or more public events annually from the MSAD #29 music department alone. We currently have a developed partnership with the Southern Aroostook Cultural Arts Project to bring the Penobscot Theater Company to the HHS Auditorium in April. We believe that with greater flexibility in a new facility, more outside organizations and groups will be able to use the space for public meetings and performances.

Why do we need another center in Houlton when we already have the two in Presque Isle and Caribou?

There is not a performing arts center in Presque Isle, and the auditorium in Caribou is more than 20 years old. The new HCAC will offer more space for theatre, music and dance all under one roof. We will have substantial space dedicated to the arts for students, community members and visitors to enjoy and participate in.