Douglas Letter - st john cantiusCarolyn Misch <cmisch@northamptonma.gov>
st john cantius
Tom Douglas <architect@tdouglasarchitects.com>Wed, May 19, 2021 at 9:48 AM
To: Carolyn Misch <cmisch@northamptonma.gov>
Hi Carolyn
I am probably too late to comment, however I just wanted the Planning Department to know that I am very much opposed to the
demolition of St John Cantius.
For 30 years, I have worked on a multitude of historic buildings, many in far worse shape than St John Cantius, and we have
successfully repurposed them to be economically viable.
Over the past 5 years, Ive toured St John Cantius with a few interested potential buyers and found the building to be in very good
condition. Obviously it needs the standard upgrades to mechanical, electrical, plumbing and roofing, however this type of upgrade has
never stopped a willing and educated owner from repurposing their historic structures.
A renovation of a historic structure takes a dedicated owner with a knowledge of the value a historic structure brings to the desirability
and longevity of a property. Sadly this doesn't seem to be the case for the current owner of St. John Cantius. Current economic
conditions are very tough because of Covid and I am well aware that the hospitality industry is struggling, however I am currently
working on two new restaurant/breweries with owners who understand that the future will be different than our current covid economy.
Thanks for hearing me out. I do not have any concerns if you want to share this email
Thanks, Tom
Tom Douglas
Thomas Douglas Architects
196 Pleasant Street
Northampton, MA 01060
413-585-0641
douglas@tdouglasarchitects.com
http://www.tdouglasarchitects.com