Message from the Howland Cultural Center:

News From the Howland Cultural Center:

Members and friends of the Howland Cultural Center . . .
Please read, and please share
This is an extremely important meeting for the Howland Cultural Center because we face a challenge. The ZBA agenda includes a request by the new owners of 475 Main Street, the building that immediately flanks the Howland Cultural Center, on both the side and in the back, for a variance (a waiver from the law's limits) to allow seven (7) residential units in the building. If they are granted the variance, they plan to build-up the existing one-story ell wing at the rear of their building to three (3) full stories, creating a brick wall that will block the light and drastically change both the appearance and character of the Howland's courtyard and its garden as seen both from Main Street and by those who use it on a daily basis. We do not deem the seven (7) apartments to be either a compatible or needed use, but rather one that will inevitably lead to conflicts.
We plan to be present at the hearing to voice our objections and would appreciate backing from our members and friends. It is a public hearing, so you can speak out if you so wish.
Thank you.

Zoning Board of Appeals, July 18th @ 7PM