Dexter’s Millworks has first tenant as renovations continue

By Mike Lange
Staff Writer

    DEXTER — The massive renovation of the old Abbot Woolen Mill in Dexter is starting to pay off for owner Frank Spizuoco Jr., as School Administrative District 46’s adult education program recently became his first tenant.
    There could be more occupants within the next few months, including an existing business that Spizuoco hopes will relocate to a large portion of the first floor. “We’re working with Millside Fitness right now, getting all the specs, estimated costs and other figures together,” Spizuoco. “Nothing is firm right now, but I’m optimistic.”

Observer photo/Mike Lange

    READY FOR OCCUPANCY — The interior of Millworks will be finished to suit tenants’ needs, according to owner Frank Spizuoco Jr. He hopes to attract medical- and education-related businesses to the complex.

    SAD 46 Superintendent Kevin Jordan said that it was “an excellent deal for the district. We have found over the years that adult ed centers function a lot better as a stand-alone operation. We’re happy to be in that building.”
    The general public will have a chance to see Millworks at an open house on Saturday, May 24 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., complete with light refreshments.
    Spizuoco bought the building from True Textiles in February 2013. The commercial wall-covering and fabric firm had been using the building for storage — a feature that the owner is still offering. “We’re renting warehouse space to Bull Moose Systems, a local contractor, and Tillson’s True Value right now. But there’s a potential for more,” he said.
    At one time, the mill’s footprint was a lot bigger. Part of the factory, which dates back to the 1830s, was demolished several years ago, leaving the three-story brick portion with 11,500 square feet on each level.
    Spizuoco’s primary focus is finding more tenants for the main floor where the adult education center is located. “We have 3,700 square feet available that can be divided into any space suitable for a tenant,” he said. “My preference is to attract clients in the medical and educational fields. These are both stable industries and always pay their rent on time.”
    An architect originally designed the top floor for residential occupancy, but Spizuoco said that he’s leaving his options open. “For the time being, my focus is on the main floor,” he said.

Observer photo/Mike Lange
    MILLWORKS OWNER — Frank Spizuoco Jr.

    Much of the interior and exterior carpentry work has been done by local contractor Jason Langlais.
    While this is a massive venture for Spizuoco, it’s not his first experience with construction and renovation. He also owns Maine Military Supply in Holden, a company he originally opened in a Newport shopping plaza. “I actually started my first business 16 years ago with $10,000 I borrowed from family and friends,” Spizuoco said.
    He relocated Maine Military Supply to Brewer for a larger venue a few years later, and then moved into a 12,000 square-foot building in Holden in February 2012.
    He employs 11 people at the retail store and has plans to open an indoor firing range at the site. “It will be the first one of its type in the state,” said Spizuoco.
    Meanwhile, Spizuoco has been burning up the miles between Dexter and Holden almost daily, but says that the effort is well worth it. “I used to drive by this building every day and see its potential,” he said. “Now it’s reality.”
    A detailed description of the building, photos and contact info is posted online at www.mainemillworks.com.