State investigates Maine town’s demolition of historic rec center

BANGOR DAILY NEWS • April 28, 2025

State environmental officials are investigating the recent demolition of an asbestos-containing building in Patten, which may have skirted state regulations and also came as a shock to many locals. But residents weren’t the only ones caught off-guard. The demolition also apparently violated state regulations governing the demolition of asbestos-containing structures. According to state rules, municipalities that are tearing down an asbestos-contaminated structure must notify residents and state environmental officials five business days in advance of demolition.