Northborough allocates $93,940 for White Cliffs Mansion renovations

Under the bright lights of Northborough's town hall, a pivotal moment unfolded as residents gathered for the Annual Town Meeting. The atmosphere buzzed with anticipation as discussions turned to the future of the historic White Cliffs Mansion, a property that has sparked debate since its purchase nine years ago.

A motion was put forth to allocate $93,940 from the Community Preservation Fund to the Northborough Planning Department. This funding aims to cover design, bid preparation, and construction administration services for the careful removal of non-historic 1960s additions to the mansion. The proposal also includes the installation of temporary watertight infill at affected locations, a crucial step in preserving the integrity of this cherished landmark.

The urgency of the motion was underscored by the speaker, who reflected on the long journey since the town voted to save White Cliffs from demolition. "It's time to move it forward one way or the other," they stated, acknowledging the myriad opinions that have surfaced over the years regarding the mansion's future.

An architect's report from 2016 highlighted the pressing need for action, identifying the kitchen, ballroom, and east additions as significant threats to the mansion's historic fabric due to water infiltration. As the motion was seconded and discussions continued, it became clear that the community is at a crossroads, eager to preserve its history while navigating the complexities of restoration.

As the meeting progressed, residents remained engaged, weighing the importance of safeguarding their town's heritage against the backdrop of modern needs. The outcome of this motion could mark a new chapter for White Cliffs, a symbol of Northborough's past, as the town seeks to honor its history while planning for the future.