There has been much discussion and confusion regarding the preservation of the Pennell Institute over the past several years.

Through a non-binding referendum question four years ago, the voters of Gray overwhelmingly supported the preservation of Pennell Institute for its historic and intrinsic values. A recent survey solicited by and from a select group would have us believe that converting this wonderfully unique asset to a commercial application as the town office is in our best interest. Balderdash!

Pennell is an historic treasure not to be plundered. Converting this building to a town office will destroy its character and cost Gray citizens significant dollars not only in capital restoration but also in unnecessary annual operating costs.

The footprint of the original Pennell building along with the addition constructed in the 1950s, represent significantly more space than forecast in the town office space study conducted a few years ago. Why are we building more than we need for our town office? Preservation of the Pennell Institute and expansion of the town administrative space are clearly separate issues. Please do not allow your emotion regarding Pennell to cloud your good judgement.

Vote “no” to commercializing Pennell. The preservation of the Pennell Institute should not be used to blind us to an unjustified expansion of town administrative space. Tell the Town Council we need more facts before we will commit to a $2.4 million bond.

Dick Walls

Gray