As a realtor in Longmeadow for the past 14 years, I want to publicly add my support for the re-zoning required to convert the Brewer Young Mansion from single-family occupancy to professional use. At 11,000 square feet this structure is simply too big to appeal to today’s buyer as a single family residence. In it’s current condition of extreme disrepair and with all its associated environmental issues this property would be far too expensive to renovate for use as a single-family dwelling.

With respect to those who fear that this may be a slippery slope that could lead to a change in the nature of the Town Green, my question to the opposition is, “Can you provide a viable alternative plan to preserve this historic and beautiful structure?” The current owners have shown vision and creativity with a plan to repurpose this structure for 21st century use. And they are doing so at much personal risk. Progress is impossible without change. I would implore residents to embrace this change and support the repurposing of a structure that has long out-lived it’s usefulness as a private residence. The added tax revenue to the town would certainly be another notable benefit.

Margie Berg
Longmeadow