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Residents urge protection of Henry Schoolhouse, criticize notice and process for proposed Suntrup automotive use
Summary
Dozens of residents urged the Manchester Board of Aldermen to protect the 1907 Henry Schoolhouse from redevelopment proposed at 120 Henry Avenue, saying the building defines the historic district and criticizing the public-notice and hearing process.
Dozens of residents urged the Manchester Board of Aldermen on June 1 to block redevelopment plans that would alter the Henry Schoolhouse, a 1907 building in Manchester’s historic district.
Speakers at the public-comment period—including longtime residents and two emailed statements read into the record—said the schoolhouse contributes to neighborhood character, provides a buffer between business and homes, and should not be repurposed for an automotive service facility. John Cooper and Jeanne Freeman opened the remarks urging preservation; several others pressed concerns about traffic, safety and property values.
The most explicit procedural complaint came from Jeffrey Augustine, who asked the Board to deny the special use permit application for 120 Henry Avenue and said residents received only six days’ notice rather than the 15 days they expected. Jessica Green, whose written remarks were read aloud, urged the Board to reschedule a City-conducted public hearing rather than directing residents to a developer-hosted open house, asking: “If the Henry Schoolhouse is not worth protecting, then what is?”
Applicant Craig Suntrup told the Board he intends to preserve and improve the interior and exterior of the schoolhouse and that he will present detailed plans at an open house on June 10. Several speakers urged the developer instead to consider vacant parcels across the street that are outside the historic district.
Director Andrea Riganti, who later provided a general overview of planning and zoning procedures, confirmed that the Planning and Zoning agenda posting is the City’s notification mechanism for proposals. Mayor Toben also announced that the formal public hearing for the special use permit had been postponed and will be rescheduled; no formal decision on the permit was made during the June 1 meeting.
The public comments were largely oppositional and focused on preservation, process and safety. The Board did not vote on the special use permit at the meeting; the next procedural steps are a rescheduled public hearing and further review by Planning and Zoning.
