LEWISTON, Maine (NEWS CENTER) -- In a closed executive session, Lewiston City Councilors will hear a propsoal Tuesday night to turn the vacant Bates Mill No. 5 into a mix of farming, residential, retail, and industrial space, as part of a plan called "Five-2-Farm."
Group "Grow L+A" has designed the plans, and spokesperson Peter Flanders says they have at least three interested investors to help renovate the mill.
Renderings for the project show a space for incubator and co-op studios, and a year-round farmer's market, as well as loft-style apartment space.
Flanders said the group will outline plans, and ask for more time before city councilors decide if they will have the mill demolished altogether.
Councilors have already set aside $2.5 million in bond money for demolition.
The future of the Bates Mill No. 5 has been debated since the mill closed in 2000.
Economic and Community Development Director Lincoln Jeffers says it's been an emotional issue, with some calling for demolition, and others asking to preserve the historic space.
"The bottom line is, you got to pay the bills," said Jeffers. "You need a tenant."
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