PORT TOWNSEND — Boiler Room managers are preparing to collect a new set of keys today.
Managers and supporters of the popular youth-oriented community coffeehouse center have collected more than $50,000 needed as a second payment on a downtown location, formerly the Day Star restaurant, at 711 Water St.
“I think it’s incredible,” said Becky Shipley, a Boiler Room manager.
“I’ve been waiting for this for a long time.”
In July, Day Star owners Bob and Chom Pray agreed to sell their one-story building for $475,000.
At that time, Boiler Room representatives put down $9,000 in earnest money.
Five years to collect money
After papers are signed today and the $50,000 payment is made, Boiler Room managers will have five years to raise the rest of the money plus interest, said Bruce Marston, Boiler Room Board of Directors president.
To date, youth coffeehouse supporters have collected more than $50,000 in donations.
Port Townsend City Councilor Michelle Sandoval, acting as a private real estate agent, donated her $15,000 commission to the project, said Marston.
Jabez Richard, a long-term member and volunteer, donated $10,000 to the Boiler Room fund.
An arts auction and fundraising concert generated about $19,000 for the project in April, said Marston.
“We got that close, but it’s been nerve-wracking,” he said, commenting on a four-month negotiation process.
More funds are trickling in through the 500 Boiler Makers campaign.
“We asked 500 people to donate $1 a day for 1,000 days,” Marston said.
People can still donate by sending a check to the Boiler Room, Marston said.
The address is P.O. Box 1659, Port Townsend, WA 98368.