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Basalt Boy Scout Troop seeks new headquarters

Scott Condon
The Aspen Times
Members of Basalt Boy Scout Troop 242 hold a recent meeting at their cabin at Willits. The owner let the Troop use the cabin, with the understanding that the site would eventually be redeveloped.
Boy Scout Troop 242 courtesy photo |

Boy Scout Troop 242 in Basalt is looking for a new home.

The cabin where the Scouts have met for nearly 25 years — with the understanding that the site would be redeveloped — must be vacated this month. The cabin is located off of Willits Lane in a part of the developing Willits residential subdivision.

Scoutmaster Brad Elliott said the organization always knew this day would come. Michael Lipkin, a partner in the development, has kept the leaders informed about plans.



“We’ve been very appreciative that they let us use it,” Elliott said.

The old, 500-square-foot cabin has been perfect for the Boy Scouts because it’s been their own structure — they didn’t have to share it. That meant they could store equipment, work on gear, display all sorts of awards and memorabilia and hold weekly meetings there without fear of conflicts.




“The ability to have that space as our own is a huge advantage,” Elliott said. Use also has been free for the past several years.

The Boy Scout troop is looking for a new permanent home. For now, it’s meeting outside. It will be able to use the Basalt Middle School once the weather turns cold. Elliott said the troop hopes to find dedicated space again.

One option that was explored but dismissed was moving the Willits cabin to a different site. “With the condition of the cabin — not really,” Elliott said. “It’s seen its use.”

Hundreds of midvalley youth have cycled through the Boy Scouts during the years the cabin has been in use.

“We’re up to over 35 Boy Scouts now, so it’s a pretty tight fit,” Elliott said.

The size of the Troop fluctuates, but 35 is on the higher side of the range.

The Scouts will bid a fond farewell to the facility Tuesday at the cabin, naturally. A barbecue will be held for current Scouts and alumni. Attendees can bring a side dish or desert. They should RSVP to Elliott by emailing him at mail@bearchitect.com or calling 970-927-7620.

scondon@aspentimes.com

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