Attleboro City Council approves sale of Academy Building to Historic Preservation Society

During the recent Attleboro City Council meeting, significant discussions centered around the future of the Academy Building on Sanford Street, as well as concerns regarding local flight paths and their impact on nearby residences.

One of the key decisions made was to select the Attleboro Historic Preservation Society as the preferred buyer for the Academy Building. This decision, which is subject to a purchase and sale agreement approved by the mayor and city solicitor, marks a hopeful step towards revitalizing a structure that has been in disrepair for years. Council members expressed optimism about the preservation society's commitment to restoring the building, which they believe could serve as a historical landmark for the community. The council emphasized the importance of ensuring that the society meets its obligations to upgrade the property within a specified timeframe, allowing the city the right to repurchase it if necessary.

In addition to the building sale, council members discussed concerns related to flight paths over residential areas. A councilor raised questions about the potential impact of these flight paths on local homes, particularly two tenement houses that were not represented at the meeting. The councilor expressed a desire to conduct further research and gather more information before proceeding, highlighting the importance of addressing community concerns while also supporting initiatives that could save lives.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to hold a committee meeting to address outstanding questions regarding the flight paths, ensuring that the voices of residents are heard in future discussions. The council's actions reflect a broader goal of balancing development and preservation while prioritizing the well-being of Attleboro's residents.