First Parish Church Westford, MA

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the status?

Please Attend Town Meeting on Saturday, March 27 at 10:00 AM at the Abbot School to vote for the application!

The application was approved by Westford's Historical Commission and the Community Preservation Committee (CPC). Funding will be voted on by Town Meeting on Saturday, March 27

What is the application for?
The application for $354K is for an elevator for the existing shaft in the Fellowship Hall, a handicapped bathroom, a connector to the Meetinghouse (hallways only), and archival storage for our historic documents and artifacts

Is it legal for the town to give money to a church?
Yes. Over 30 churches in Massachusetts have used CPC to fund historic restoration in churches. The laws allow for new construction to provide handicapped access. The town asked for a legal opinion and the opinion was that our request is legal.

What is the historical significance of the Meetinghouse?
The Westford Preservation Plan describes the Meetinghouse as "Westford's most historically significant resource". It is four years older than the town. It was the town hall until 1868 and Westford Academy graduations were held at the Meetinghouse until 1907

Why should the town fund a non-municipal building?
The Meetinghouse is located on Westford's town common, it is heavily used by the entire community and it is considered the town's most historic building.

Would it be a better use of town funds to spend tax dollars on basic services?
CPC funds are matched by the state and are heavily regulated. They can only be used for historic and land preservation, housing and recreation.

I heard that the Selectmen did not approve of the request, what does this mean?
The Selectmen voted (3 to 2) to "not recommend". Town Meeting has the ultimate authority to approve. We are asking the Selectmen to reconsider their vote and recommend, but the application for funds will be voted on by town meeting regardless of the Selectmen's vote.

What is the next step?
The application will be voted on at town meeting on Saturday, March 27. The meeting starts at 10:00 AM. Babysitting will be provided at the church.

Will the request be debated by town meeting?
Yes. Every vote will count.

Who can attend and vote at town meeting?
Anyone can attend town meeting. Only registered voters in the town of Westford can vote.

What can I do?
Attend town meeting and encourage friends and family to attend. Support the capital campaign to show FPCU support for the building project.

PLEASE ATTEND TOWN MEETING ON SATURDAY, MARCH 27 AT 10:00 AM ABBOTT SCHOOL. BABYSITTING WILL BE AVAILABLE AT FPCU.

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