This week, December 2 to be exact, our Trustee Chairs along with NAI Real estate development company held a "neighborhood" meeting with about 30 people. Invitations were sent to about 346 homes surrounding the church. The purpose of the gathering was to share with our neighbors what the church has tried to do over the last 18 months to sell the building. A second purpose was to solicit ideas from those who live closest as to what they may see in this location, if not another church.
Over the last 18 months, NAI has contacted well over 50+ churches and schools with possible interest in the area. While we did have some leads and many looks, no offer has been made. The current zoning is restrictive to these uses.
The neighbors who gathered were a very nice group, yet cautious and questioning. Their previous experience with the commercial development left them wondering if that was our real intent. A few chastised the church reps for "beginning the building program" without selling this facility. Another neighbor jumped in and stated that really wasn't the neighbor's decision at all, but church business. I did try to explain our "7 services a Sunday" and overcrowded kids' space dilemna.
We also received one hostile letter from a neighbor who did not show up accusing us of siding with the commercial development. I addressed those issues as well.
But great progress was finally made when many began to brainstorm other possible uses. The most exciting one was using the building for medical purposes or research and development. The M-6 corridor is becoming known for medical facilities along with all of Kent County. The jobs are better paying and the traffic is tolerable.
The meeting ended on a great note. There was a spirit of cooperation and mutual trust that I think prevailed. I believe that it was unfortunate how the church got caught between the neighbors that opposed the retail development the last time. Many wrong conclusions were drawn. Hopefully, this can be a completely different outcome. All of our neighbors are important to us and to God.
Please continue to lift up the sale of this building in your prayers. It is absolutely crucial as this year goes along....
Brad
Cornerstone Weekly Happenings - May 5 thru 11
6 months ago
1 comments:
Brad,
I agree with your comments on the meeting held at the church back in December to brainstorm ideas on uses for the church. The idea of converting the church to medical use type building was a very interesting idea. With an aging population this may be a very viable use for your church. I also appreciate the opportunity to speak at this meeting.
I would appreciate if you and Ken Watkins would keep the neighbors informed on progress of selling the building.
Thank you,
Joe Griffin
Cornerstone Neighbor
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