Board of Selectmen Regular Budget Meeting Materials (linked)

February 9, 2021
Robert Brule, First Selectman
15 Rope Ferry Road
Waterford, CT 06385
Dear Mr. Brule,
| write in support of your request of $150,000 in the Capital Non-recurring Budget
to be used for restoring the historic Nevins Tenant’s Cottage located on Rope
Ferry Road.
If the funds are approved through the budgetary process, the Town can apply for
matching grants through the CT State Historic Preservation Office. With that funding,
the cottage will be restored in the manner that provides for the proper care and treatment
of our historic properties, will limit further deterioration of the cottage, and reduce the
burden and expense that caring haphazardly for a too-long neglected building has
placed on the town.
Correcting the structural deficiencies and rehabilitating the exterior of the cottage is a
multi-year project that will require several rounds of CNR funding and successful grant
applications, however, most of the direct costs to the town will be recovered
through the grant process in a few years
Once the renovations are underway, | am confident that this project will gain community
support, which is why | am involved with a fundraising campaign to advance and
possibly expand the project with informational and educational signage explaining the
historical significance of Shaw-Perkins-Nevins farm on which the cottage once stood.
While some money has already been donated, and additional pledges have been made,
the public-facing campaign will get underway in earnest once this request is approved
and CNR funding secured.
Restoring and preserving the cottage enhances the character of Jordan Village and
connects residents and visitors to local history. The restored cottage will enhance the
Civic Triangle helping to fulfill the vision of a town center that provides parks, small
businesses, town buildings, and other recreational areas in one pedestrian-friendly area.
Perhaps the cottage would ultimately become one of those businesses or host town
attractions.
1 commend the Board of Selectmen for taking up this matter, which has been
deferred for far too long. The restored Nevins Tenant’s Cottage will be an asset to
Waterford’s Civic Triangle, and could become be an asset to the grand list as well.
Respectfully Submitted,
Sally B. Ritchie
4 Donna Street
Waterford