(Chelsea Update would like to thank Matt Pegouskie for the information in this story.)
On Feb. 16, 5 Healthy Towns Foundation’s (5HF) Board of Directors made a decision to place the Dexter Wellness Center (DWC), located at 2810 Baker Road in Dexter, for sale.
This decision comes after many months of analyzing how the economic downturn across the region is affecting operations financially.
Many issues were considered in this decision, including the drop in membership during and since the pandemic, numerous discussions on other purposes the building could offer the community through shared use agreements with other non-profits and organizations, and a complete financial evaluation of the anticipated impact on the future of the Foundation’s assets.
“This difficult decision was made to protect the long-term viability of 5 Healthy Towns Foundation today and in the future, to assure that the Foundation would continue with its founding mission to support and foster a culture of wellness across the region,” says Board Chairperson Patrick Conlin.
According to Steve Petty, 5HF CEO, “This decision is the culmination of months of review by our board and ultimately led to the difficult decision to sell the center. When Dexter Wellness Center was opened in 2013, it served as a very visible example of 5HF’s commitment to supporting physical activity and wellness. As the board completed its strategic review, it was determined that the center was not immune to the economic conditions being experienced by so many businesses across our region. Unfortunately, the decision to list the property for sale was necessary in preserving the assets of the foundation and continue to support health and wellness initiatives across the 5 Healthy Towns region for generations to come.”
“We continue to explore all opportunities locally and are hopeful that we can work with a buyer who shares our vision for strengthening personal and community wellness for Dexter residents. We anticipate that the sale process could take many months,” says Petty. “The center will remain open with full services for both existing and new members. The building can also be used by local non-profits for programming after hours, at no cost, pending availability. Members and staff have been informed of this decision as well, and we will continue our commitment to work transparently with staff, and community members to evaluate future options for the building. There are no changes to our operations in Chelsea or Stockbridge, and Dexter members already enjoy full access to those wellness center locations.”
For more information, contact 5HF at 734-433-4599.
