East Hampton should buy Middle Haddam School

The “Little Red Schoolhouse” (Middle Haddam School) has lay dormant in a neglected state since it was sold by the town of East Hampton years ago. Now owned by the Middle Haddam Association, its future appears uncertain, as the fate proposed by some members of the MHA’s Board of Directors is demolition.

Regrettably, the association has made no effort to professionally market the property or aggressively seek funding for its rehabilitation.

Contrary to its deteriorated appearance, many builders and historic preservationists are favorably impressed with its structural integrity and quality of construction. They strongly endorse an adaptive reuse.

Relevant examples of successful reuse projects include the Eckersley Hall School in Middletown, similar in size and age, which is now a thriving senior center. The Portland Town Hall was also converted from a school of the same period.

As the East Hampton population increases over the next decade, there will be a greater demand for public facilities and services. To fill this need, the town should consider repurchasing the former Middle Haddam School to be a feasible and prudent opportunity:

• The building has already been vetted and successfully utilized for years as a beloved public school.

• East Hampton owns the adjacent lot, which would enhance the value of the school site for the town.

• According to those who inspected the building, environmental issues (if any) are minimal.

• Many in the Middle Haddam community were financially generous in supporting the building’s purchase by the MHA because the alternative proposal that required spot-zoning was considered out of character for the historic neighborhood. A municipal use would be enthusiastically supported.

• Many agree that even in its present condition the property has intrinsic value and presents a veritable bargain.

It is time for the town to make an offer! — Ronald W. McCutcheon, Middle Haddam