Acton Town Committee approves CPA funding for historic RH Adhesives building restoration

The Acton Town Meeting convened on May 5, 2025, to address several key agenda items, including funding for historic preservation and fire suppression upgrades. The meeting began with a vote on the restoration of antique fire apparatus, which passed without opposition.

The discussion then shifted to Item J, concerning RH Adhesives and proposed fire suppression upgrades for a privately owned historic building. Anne Forbes, a resident, raised concerns about the eligibility of funding for a for-profit business, questioning the precedent for using Community Preservation Act (CPA) funds in such cases. She noted that many towns typically reserve these funds for nonprofit or publicly owned properties.

In response, a representative clarified that Acton has previously funded private buildings, citing past projects such as the Palmer Galleries and condominiums on Central and Main Streets. The building in question is part of the Acton Powder Mill Historic District, which holds significant historical value dating back to the Revolutionary War. The owner, a local graduate, has invested over $100,000 of his own funds into maintaining the property and has demonstrated a commitment to preserving its historical integrity.

Support for the funding proposal was voiced by Patty Sumlin, who highlighted RH Adhesives as one of the oldest manufacturing companies in Acton, emphasizing its importance to the local economy and community.

The meeting concluded with a requirement for a preservation restriction to be placed on the building as part of the funding agreement, ensuring that the historical aspects of the property are maintained. The discussions underscored the town's commitment to balancing historical preservation with support for local businesses.