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Chesterfield EDC discusses nonprofit to preserve historic buildings
Summary
The Chesterfield Economic Development Committee discussed forming a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, "Historic Chesterfield," to acquire and seek grants to renovate aging properties including the Marsh House and Legion Building; no formal vote was taken.
The Chesterfield Economic Development Committee on June 11 discussed creating a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, described in the meeting as "Historic Chesterfield," to acquire and preserve aging local properties and make them eligible for renovation grants. The proposal named several buildings of interest, including the Legion Building, Marsh House, the town church, the Grange and the Actors Theatre.
Ron Rzasa, who presided over the meeting, said individuals have expressed interest in the Marsh House and that he would provide their names to guest Jeff Scott. Fran Shippee, the Board of Selectmen representative, said she would speak to the Legion about possible reuse of that building for daycare services.
Supporters said a nonprofit owner could pursue grant funding and manage renovations if current owner organizations are unable to continue operating the buildings. Members cited the example of another town (Walpole) that has used a nonprofit structure to stabilize and reuse historic properties.
Committee members did not take a formal vote to create the nonprofit at this meeting. The topic will remain on the committee's agenda for follow-up and for collecting names, interest and additional feasibility information.
