Local YMCA to Buy Old Exeter Junior High

A Kingston-based YMCA group has agreed in principle to buy the old Exeter Junior High School.

The Southern District YMCA, which operates a popular Camp Lincoln summer camp, plans to work with a community group to turn the old high school into a "hub" for social, health, recreational, cultural and educational services.

The YMCA plans to buy the building from Squamscott Community Commons. SCC purchased it in 2008 from the school district with plans to turn it into a community center. SCC will now work with the YMCA to realize that goal.

"The property will be used to better the community," said SCC board chair Amy McLaughlin, in a statement. "The Squamscott Community Commons will continue to support the YMCA and support our mission with the nonprofit agencies including SeaCare, Richie McFarland, Great Bay Kids and Rockingham Community Action."

Terry Sullivan, board chair for the Southern District YMCA, said:

"We remain vigilant in our commitment to the families within the greater Exeter area to bring the programming they seek for health, recreation and social opportunities for all ages ... Our strategic plan has always been to fulfill this community need. Working with SCC, we are closer to attaining that goal."

The deal has not been finalized, though both sides expect that will happen within six months.

The junior high building is located at 56 Lincoln St. It has fallen into a state of disrepair since it's been vacant.