masterson letter.docxCITY OF NORTHAMPTON
David J. Narkewicz, Mayor
City Hall
210 Main Street Room 12
Northampton, MA 01060-3199
(413) 587-1249 Fax: (413) 587-1275
mayor@northamptonma.gov
September
9, 2015
City of Northampton
Community Preservation Committee (CPA)
City Hall – 210 Main Street
Northampton, Massachusetts 01060
Re: Letter of Support for Historic Northampton
Dear
Chairperson Meyer and Committee Members:
Please accept this letter of support for Historic Northampton’s application for funding to continue restoring and preserving the Parsons, Shepherd
and Damon Houses. These historic assets deserve our full support and maintenance not only for their irreplaceable cultural and historic value but on a smaller level, a vibrant Historic
Northampton is a worthwhile visitor attraction that complements other regional historic restorations. Additionally, the vibrancy of Downtown Northampton is an essential part of Northampton’s
quality of life. And on an economic level, this unique concentration of arts, entertainment, cultural and historic assets sustains many commercial and real estate properties which employ
hundreds of people and generate significant tax revenues for Northampton.
Northampton is very fortunate to benefit from the diligent efforts of the Acting Director and the Board
of Trustees who deserve our full support, during these challenging times which include financial as well as restoration requirements for its historic properties. Current accomplishments
include balancing the operating budget with operating revenue for the first time in 20 years, hosting an increasingly active schedule of public programs and exhibitions, and for collaborating
with schools and other local organizations.
At this time, the most urgent issues are replacing dangerous wiring in Parsons House, stabilizing the environment in the Damon basements
where the collections are stored, and stabilizing the long-neglected Shepherd Barn. Members of the Board are donating their time, and money, to support this project, and they are gathering
contributions from others in the community. But four historic buildings are a lot to take care of, and this important local institution also needs funding from the Community Preservation
Act. Please help Historic Northampton to preserve its historic buildings so that they can continue to make history present for generations to come.
Sincerely,
Terence J. Masterson