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05/25/2016 08:00 AMWe were very disappointed to learn of the Town of Madison’s decision to not renew the letter of intent given to the Shoreline Arts Alliance for the lease of Academy School. We were even more disappointed to read about the town’s counteroffer—removing all accountability and responsibility to bring the building up to code. What tenant would accept such an offer from a landlord?
In the 17 years that we have lived in Madison, we do not recall any organization or business having a serious interest in Academy School. What is the town waiting for? An offer of grand promises and plans from a developer who will go bankrupt before completing the project? Or perhaps a big box store that will add charm to the downtown historic area?
The Shoreline Arts Alliance has been in existence for 36 years and works hard to educate, encourage, enrich, and engage area residents through the arts and humanities. It is not going anywhere and would have a tremendous positive impact to the town. People already come to Madison for the Sculpture Mile and numerous outdoor performances during the summer months, to name just a few. Why not complement these already-established events with a cultural arts center operated by a reputable and responsible organization such as the Shoreline Arts Alliance?
We encourage the Board of Selectman to rethink its decision, work together, and follow through with its original commitment to the Shoreline Arts Alliance—renew the letter of intent and get started to turn an old, empty, and abandoned building into a celebrated destination and powerful resource for the residents of Madison.
Ed and Joanne Arrandale
Madison