I was unable to attend the hearing about the Hapgood Library proposal because it has become too dangerous to walk there at night, even with a flashlight. That danger should be the first issue on the selectmen’s agenda: to ensure access to all public buildings and to recognize that the areas in and around the town center should be safely lit and with adequate walkways separate from the roadway to avoid traffic accidents. Above all else, public safety is a priority. The town should encourage walking and be mindful that increasing vehicular traffic will only add to the parking and pedestrian problems.
I did watch the hearing on the cable channel. I have several concerns:
- As the entity with the authority to lease the building, what building codes must the selectmen adhere to? It was reported earlier that the Board of Selectmen was able to forgo providing adequate handicapped access to the Hapgood Library because the move there is temporary. This raises the question of what constitutes a temporary or permanent tenant.
- It seems logical that the town must bear the responsibility of providing appropriate access to all town buildings. Is it possible for the selectmen to lease a building without providing access? Or convey ultimate liability to another entity?
- A good deal of the hearing was spent on concerns about the previous tenant. The owner of any building has a responsibility to keep a watchful eye on the tenants. If the selectmen did not properly oversee the previous tenant and permitted bills to go unattended, it should not be the responsibility of the prospective tenant to explain what the previous one did wrong.
- The town should develop rules for tenancy that meet the requirements of laws concerning accessibility, appropriate insurance, and the like. The town must have its own insurance against property damage and loss, just as it expects the tenant to provide its own insurance. What steps have the selectmen taken in that regard?
- A vacant building is a neighborhood blight, a danger, and an attractive nuisance inviting vandalism. The Hapgood Library is in need of some basic remodeling, notwithstanding the problem of accessibility. The town should welcome a prospective tenant that is willing to make use of the building and make minor repairs.
- The town, mindful of the original purpose of the Hapgood Library, voted that the building continue as an educational or cultural facility. To hold classes for dance, theater, other arts, and senior citizen activities appears to be a perfect fit.
- I believe it is inappropriate for the town government to concern itself with for-profit enterprises that may fear potential competition. The world abounds with private for-profit and nonprofit businesses and organizations that function quite well by appealing to various markets.
- I believe it is also inappropriate for the town to concern itself with the amount of profit a building tenant declares. The town should only be concerned to lease the building to a viable entity, a tenant that will act responsibly, be a good neighbor, and pay rent and utilities promptly.
Marge Darby
Ayer Road
