I am writing in support of the sale of Pavilion Hall in New Preston by the Town of Washington to the owners of Plain Goods store. It is my firm belief that this sale presents the best possible outcome to the dilemma this noble old building presents the town.

Of the proposals that were submitted to the Town of Washington, the Plain Goods plan was the most fleshed out, with realistic estimates for the considerable work that has to be done, a solid plan for it accomplishing it; accommodations made for community access; and a plan for a business that will benefit the entire community through tax revenue and restoration of beloved building.

Plain Goods, which has been in the Village going on three years, has demonstrated its viability as a business in New Preston. The owner, Michael DePerno, has nearly 30 years experience starting and running very similar and successful retail businesses. His partner, Andrew Fry, has significant experience in design, marketing and business. The care with which they have created their business and restored their antique Washington home speaks to the consummate respect they hold for historic buildings.

The group that seeks to purchase the building and use it as a community center does not appear to have any idea how much money they will need to restore the building, nor how much ongoing maintenance will cost; what kinds of programs they plan to offer the community that aren’t already available elsewhere, what staffing is needed to maintain the programs or the buildings, or how to continue funding the building. Having worked for and with a number of under-resourced organizations with needy historic buildings, I don’t see how a viable plan can be developed that will serve the townspeople and the building.

Sarah Griswold

Washington Depot