Demolition Set to Take Place at Historic Barrington Estate Raises Concerns

[16 Acres]

Originally Posted by Hollytree

I recall as well that they let go a huge gorgeous rose garden that was open to the public and should have been preserved- thought that was so sad- it became a housing development. https://www.nytimes.com/1986/03/02/u...s-a-thorn.html

Interesting story. One of the key issues though is this quote from the article:

"and a reassessment of his property raised his taxes"

As long as he ran it the way he did, they should have given him Farm "Land Use" status, if RI has such a thing, to keep his taxes low. Of the time I spent in RI, I saw a many interesting place, go like this one. As beautiful as it was, I would say the local government was rubbing their hands in glee, knowing that they would be receiving even more tax money in the near future.

All that said, I hope they can find a way to keep that beautiful building. I spent some good time in Barrington years ago and I never knew it was there either.

[Hollytree]

There is alternate taxation for farm and open space use. I guess the owner did not pursue that- the article makes him sound pretty feisty. Farm, Forest and Open Space Act- Rhode Island -Department of Environmental Management

I would have thought Barrington could have taken the rose garden on as a park- although they don't currently give a lot to park maintenance- the few they have. It's as if all taxes disappear into the schools.

[independent man]

Originally Posted by Hollytree

There is alternate taxation for farm and open space use. I guess the owner did not pursue that- the article makes him sound pretty feisty. Farm, Forest and Open Space Act- Rhode Island -Department of Environmental Management

I would have thought Barrington could have taken the rose garden on as a park- although they don't currently give a lot to park maintenance- the few they have. It's as if all taxes disappear into the schools.

I have to say, I care more about the uber important historic building than the lovely gardens. 90% of Rhode Island's towns lack such an important historic edifice. Certainly nothing in Jamestown compares.

[sandsonik]

Originally Posted by Hollytree

Citizens of Barrington need to get busy here. Part of the problem is that the structure is pretty well hidden behind walls and is well back on the large lot- I'll bet a lot of people aren't even aware of it.

There is a Barrington Preservation Society but they don't seem to be active at the moment.

I recall as well that they let go a huge gorgeous rose garden that was open to the public and should have been preserved- thought that was so sad- it became a housing development. https://www.nytimes.com/1986/03/02/u...s-a-thorn.html

https://barringtonpreservation.org

Save it for what, exactly?

RI has a very real, urgent need for affordable housing - Hell, for any new housing. I think it's a crime if public money is used to save a mansion instead. I better not see it on the next election bond proposals!