In addition to attending the June 15 presentation by the trustees' consultants, I also attended a recent meeting with a group that is working towards better uses for the historic structure. The great news is that the recent inspection of the building by a professional restoration architect revealed that the building is in fine structural condition. It is perfectly sound and stable and in much better shape than many other buildings where adaptive re-use of historic properties has been successfully completed. The fears of "demolition by neglect" have been exaggerated.

It is not just the façade, or outside of the building, but the inside that also shows the great craftsmanship and wonderful style of the main floor - valuable walnut paneling, Tiffany studio style stained glass, expensive ceramic tiles and superior and elegant meeting rooms - all purchased by the village through the approval of a residential vote for finances. It is so much more wise to be able to access and use this most valuable village asset to its maximum benefit for all than lock everyone out for over a decade. The uses are many, and a public-private partnership under a nonprofit conservation board can provide the financing at a cost to households cheaper than a membership at the Garden City Pool - which only lasts three months.

The residents of this village can certainly use the historic landmark and it should be used from morning to after dark, providing a full range of services for all. User fees can easily provide the revenue stream to maintain and continue to improve the facility. It offers more than just "meeting rooms," but an upscale restaurant, casual snack bar, reception hall, concert and recital area, art gallery, museum space and information center - a place where seniors can go and remain a viable part in the center of our community; a place to read and a place to learn. The children can still play soccer on the St. Paul's fields, but you don't have to leave when you become an adult.

It seems most of the village trustees only are interested in selling the property, letting a private developer gut the building, add even more construction space onto it, and installing nearly 150 private bathrooms at a "private" cost in excess of $70 million. Yes, two new bathrooms for each of the 70-plus proposed "private units." Please don't let the trustees turn St. Paul's into a giant toilet, but let your voice be known that you want to be part of St. Paul's, and not stopped outside the door.

Robert Alvey