The Westfield Historical Commission is set to hold a public hearing on Monday regarding the potential demolition of the 1896 Atwater house, also known as the former Blessed Sacrament Parish rectory. The meeting will take place at 6 p.m. on September 23rd at City Hall in Westfield.
The city recently acquired the property at 6 Union St. and intends to tear down the historic house to make room for a new Police Department headquarters. This decision has stirred controversy among residents and preservation advocates who believe the Atwater house holds significant cultural and historical value.
The public hearing will provide an opportunity for community members to voice their opinions on the matter and potentially sway the decision of city officials. The Atwater house is a prime example of late 19th-century architecture in Westfield and has been a part of the city’s cultural heritage for over a century.
The proposed demolition has sparked debate over the importance of preserving historical landmarks and the impact of new developments on the city’s historic character. Some argue that the Atwater house should be saved and repurposed for another use, while others support the construction of a modern Police Department facility in its place.
The outcome of the public hearing and subsequent discussions will determine the fate of the Atwater house and the future of the proposed Police Department headquarters. Interested parties are encouraged to attend the meeting and share their perspectives on this contentious issue.
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