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Our Last Opportunity

On Feb. 15, Madison residents are finally going to have their voices heard regarding the transformation of Academy Street School into a community center. This may be our last opportunity to add a much-desired, multi-use gathering place to downtown Madison.

I look forward to a building where bands can give concerts, dance and theater groups can perform without having to rent space in another town (Academy has two stages!), cooking classes could be given, Recreation Department offerings can be expanded, and the 4th of July’s annual symphony concert could be held even if was raining on the green. In addition to the chance for residents to play and learn in our downtown, the Community Center would enhance services provided by Beach & Rec as well as by Youth & Family Services.

There are energy grants and tax credits to potentially offset costs, and numerous organizations are looking to rent rooms in a spacious, historic, refurbished former school within walking distance of the rest of downtown.

Daniel Hand gave generously so that Madison would have a center of learning. Let’s make it a space for residents of all ages.

I encourage your readers to vote “Yes” on Feb. 15 to create a community center in Madison!

Joan McPherson

Madison