Church Letter.docxCommunity Preservation Committee (CPC) of Northampton, MA
C/o Sarah La Valley
To CPC:
I support O’Connell Development Group’s request for $500,000 in CPA funding to save St John Cantius Building from demolition. I support using CPA funding to restore the exterior of the
church to historic preservation standards and provide the city with a permanent historic preservation easement.
I am a citizen of Northampton and I live on Hawley Street. I can see the Church Building from my home’s windows and I walk by the church very often. I think it is a beautiful and historic
building that helps define the neighborhood. It is a very important landmark in the community and holds history of the Polish community’s impact on this neighborhood and Northampton.
I love seeing it and I would be very saddened to see it torn down. The brick work and architecture of the building is beautiful and unique. As I drive up Hawley street to my home I
can see the tower and it is a welcome charming sight. I believe the tower which is visible form downtown adds to the beauty of the city skyline and character of the Northampton downtown
area. Maintaining the beauty and architectural history of the city is important to sustain the ambiance that attracts so many people and businesses to our city.
I think this is an excellent use of CPA funding. I believe strongly is repurposing our older and historical buildings.
I strongly urge the committee to approve this funding for repurposing this beautiful building.
Sincerely,
Judith A Burke
50 Hawley Street, unit #1
Cc: Historical Commission c/o Martha Lyon
Friends of St. John Cantius Church c/o Deb Henson