Comments supporting the preservation and reuse of the Cornell Cooperative Extension building.

This building is the nose on the nose on Westports face! Please save it! 
–Clay Stephens, Wadhams, NY

The County has neglected this building for many years.  It should be restored, not demolished. 

–Betty White, Town Historian, Westport, NY

As we watched a group of Amish farmers erecting a barn, Westport’s Code Enforcement Officer commented that the cost of building materials is sky-rocketing.  We have a situation that favors preservation and renovation of existing buildings rather than building new. 

–William Johnston, former Essex County Planner, Westport, NY

The CCE building is irreplaceable and can be fully restored per AARCH’s expert review and advisement. As an Essex County taxpayer, I implore Essex County to preserve Westport’s architectural heritage for future generations to come. 

–Michelle Pacquette-Deuel, Saratoga Springs/Newcomb, NY

We must save this building. We have so few historical buildings left.   It’s also the gateway to the fairgrounds. 

–Wendy Meguid, Westport, NY

Please save this special building. It represents our society, our culture, and our history. Respect for our shared past, creates hope for our future.

–Valerie Longwood, Westport, NY

The property and buildings it contains is historically significant and prominently situated.  Westport is undergoing an exciting revitalization-with new home owners and burgeoning enterprise. It is also home to generations who hold Westport dear. It is important to honor its essence and history. It would be a tragedy to erase something that is both meaningful and beautiful. We must preserve the CCE and Fairgrounds Complex for posterity’s sake and Westport’s sake.

–R. Ford Baker, Westport, NY / Old Greenwich, CT

This building was part of my childhood. I attended 4H Club meetings there and occasionally visited my sister, who worked there for her entire career.

–Jay Bigelow, Plattsburgh, NY

Historic buildings build community love of place and attract people to the region. Building a new building for more money is illogical. The historic building is in good shape for renovation and the town of Westport has a team of professionals ready for the job.

–Carly Summer, Westport, NY

What I have learned from people familiar with the building leave no doubt that renovation is the better solution on many fronts - historically, environmentally and fiscally.  Especially important as the building is within the new Historic hamlet designation.  The building would make a good community multipurpose space.  Much needed in Westport.  

–Cheri Phillips. Westport, NY

A wonderful landmark that greets visitors to the Fairgrounds and the town of Westport.

–Robyn T. Saunders, Westport, NY

The Cornell Cooperative Extension Building is an important element of the visual character of Westport. Tearing it down to replace it with a more generic new building would undermine the historical feel of Westport since the building stands in a visually prominent location in the Town. My children went to 4H there. While the building certainly needs work, there is no reason to lose the building we have.

–Kathryn Cramer, Westport, NY

I worked in this building for almost 40 years and am so saddened that the county wants to demolish an historic building.  I hope it can be repaired.  It is a beautiful building.

–Kay Legacy, Westport, NY

I live right across the street from the historic fairgrounds building and would be devastated if it was torn down in favor of new construction. It is a unique icon of the area and should be preserved. Doing so will help increase use of the fairgrounds, and preserve a special piece of history.

–Mary Godnick, Westport, NY

Regular Westport visitor and I support the preservation of this building for economic and sustainability reasons- it exists, it is cheaper to fix than replace, and preserving heritage and character provides value to Essex County. Don't replace a beautiful old building with another cookie-cutter modern box.

–Michael Bartlett, Davie, FL

This building is part of the charm and history of Westport and the Adirondacks. These buildings are such hidden assets in drawing outside resources to the region.

–Kris Balderson, Willsboro, NY

This building is one of Max Westoff's many contributions to the architectural heritage of the Adirondacks.  As a successor in the practice in which he was one of only five partners during its 110 year history, I strongly support the restoration of this building.

–Ronald H. De Lair, AIA, Southport, NC

The CCE building is one of Westport's gems!  It would be insane to lose it.

–Robby Barnett, Westport, NY

A stunning piece of architecture shouldn't fall prey to the whims of current thought. 

–John Nye, Clinton, NY

The County failed in its duty to care for the building over the years. This was brought to their attention back in the 1990s but nothing was done. They have a responsibility to protect county resources, not waste them.

–Anne de la Chapelle, Plattsburgh, NY

While I'm not a resident of Essex county, I visit often.  The preservation of Historic Register buildings, no matter where they are located, deserves the support of non-residents also.

–Patricia Boomhower, Halfmoon, NY

Growing up in Elizabethtown, a family trip to the Essex County Fair was an annual outing. We always started with lunch & a dessert of ice cream in the 4-H building. While I no longer reside in Essex County, my annual summer trips to the Adirondacks include a stay at the Inn in Westport during fair week. As a resident of New York State, I am very much opposed to any of my federal taxes being used to support demolishing this iconic building. I intend to express my views to Senators Gillibrand, Schumer, & Representative Reed.

–Mary Passage, Corning, NY

It seems ridiculous to tear down a viable building so important to both the history and identity of Westport. In terms of sustainability along with the opportunity to repurpose it for greater usage the preservation and renovation of the building can only be a win win for the entire community at large.

–Anne Surchin, Southold, NY

As an architect myself and an Adirondack native, the existing building is full of character and craftsmanship that is not delivered in today’s buildings. The existing building appears to be in structurally sound condition and would need renovation and ADA access upgrades, but it would not be a total rehabilitation of the structure. The proposed building is an eyesore, a metal building clad with fake materials and sited poorly surrounded by parking, it looks like it was designed by a pre-fab metal building company, not an architect. It would be a disaster to replace a decent building with a building that looks like a dollar general! Please pursue the rehabilitation route.

–David Kornmeyer, Old Forge/Sausalito, NY

I'm horrified and saddened that the county would even consider demolishing the CCE Building without considering a proposal to rehabilitate it.

–Suzanne Roberson, Saranac Lake, NY

The building is an essential aspect of the history of the area. It must be renovated and reused.

–Cynthia Schira, Westport, NY

Essex County should do the right thing and rehabilitate this building!

–Erin Tobin, Preservation League of New York State, Albany, NY

The CCE building is an integral part of the Essex County fairgrounds and holds an important place in the history or our town and county. From a sustainability standpoint as well, it is important to remember that introducing new buildings and materials has a negative impact on our earth and this project is coming about where we must be hyper aware of our place in the environment to ensure a healthy happy future for the Adirondack Park.

–Annette Stephens, Wadhams, NY

When a building has that been placed on the National Register of Historic Places and when the cost to renovate the building is less than the cost to rebuild a smaller, more costly structure that is inconsistent with the character of the original building, it seems that there should be no question as to what to do. Please do not even consider demolition of this beautiful historic structure! Renovate as needed and do all possible in the renovation work to do justice to this lovely historical building as it has been originally built.

–Suzanne Doin, Plattsburgh, NY

This building defines what the impression people have of Westport.  It is worth celebrating, not tearing down.

–Charles D. Schoonover, Westport, NY

I totally support the preservation of the historic CCE AG building at the Essex County Fairgrounds. Demolition of this historic landmark is unacceptable and would be a complete waste of resources, state funds and a missed recycled "green" building opportunity.

–Dan Keegan, Westport, NY

Loss of this building would negatively change the fairgrounds entrance and the architectural unity of the other structures there.  Moreover, public entities in N.Y. cannot demolish National Register property they own.  The Albany International Airport Authority was forced to relocate a National Register house it owned near the airport rather than demolish it.  It would also be a huge loss for the historic hamlet of Westport.  It should be given to Westport to rehab if the county won't do it.  The county's lack of maintenance and upkeep caused its deterioration.  Demolishing it would greatly discourage other similar philanthropic donations for other public uses.

–Anthony C. Brankman, Esq., Loudonville, NY

As co-founder of the Adirondack Harvest Festival held at the Essex County Fairgrounds since 2016, I was very fortunate to meet so many folks that loved seeing more activities and use of the historic structures.  Tearing down history and replacing it with generic buildings destroys all the wonderful memories that made the fairgrounds a destination for the agricultural community and neighbors to come together.  

–Heidi Sweet, Westport, NY

This building was beautiful when I was a child and lived in Westport, NY. I went to 4-H and learned to sew in this beautiful building. I hope and wish with all my heart that it will be restored. 

–Anne Brankman Dickerson, Keeseville, NY

I support the most economical approach which is preservation/restoration of the existing building.  My family and I, natives of Essex (Willsboro) and Clinton (Keeseville) Counties, consider the fair part of our families' heritages in celebration of our rich agricultural histories.

–Terry L. Barber, Fort Ann, NY

I spent time in that building every fair time for most of my 79 years.  My Dad, Charles Nichols, had his office upstairs for around 15 years in the 50's until 1964 as the Conservation and Stabilization Office Agent.  The 4H exhibits and meals were always served there.  If it will be less expensive especially restoration and continuation of this historic landmark must be considered rather than a modern building.  Westport is one of the oldest most historic towns in the County.

–Ann N. Arnold, Ausable Forks, NY

This complex is so historical, so beautiful so functional. We need to preserve this type of ideals that harken back to a communal understanding of gathering folk together to share.

–Ellen Fisher, Keene, NY

The existing building has character, authenticity and sense of place.  Keep it!

–A. Hanninen, Fairfield, CT

The building is a great example of classic colonial revival architectural design. Built at a time when carpenters were real craftsmen and took pride in creating something lasting and beautiful. Do not destroy it.

–Pamela Dreissigacker, Wilmington, NY

Our community has few buildings of more historic value than the CCE building in Westport.  Historic structures add character to our community and our to community's events.  Please save this historic building!

–Donald Pachner, Keene, NY

It is a beautiful, historical building with character that should be saved. Many from the area have connections to that building either thru 4-H, going to Fair, assorted club meetings and Camps. Please save the memories and restore what is classic and good.

–Robin L. Mortensen-Miller, Jay, NY

I've seen to many significant buildings torn down, this is my effort to save one.

–Phillip Sheedy, Port Henry, NY

As an architect that works with renovations of older structures, I understand there are challenges but the long term benefit and significance is often worth it. This is such an iconic building that should be preserved for the community. There should be valid economic data to prove other otherwise.

–Susan Davis, Saratoga Springs, NY

That structure delights me every time I drive through Westport. The fairgrounds are a testament to a time when architecture reflected timeless beauty and lofty ideals. It would be a tragedy to see such a structure demolished.

–Marie Anne-Ward, Jay, NY

Demolishing this piece of history would be a complete travesty.  While I no longer live in Westport, my family has been there since before this building was built. It’s architecture and simplicity are the essence of Westport. Tearing it down would be a huge loss and create an eyesore where beauty once stood. Nothing erected today could ever compare to the craftsmanship of this building.  

–Terra C. Pfund, Troy, NY

The building is integral to the Fairgrounds, a signature landmark. I grew up in Port Henry, looked forward to and attended the annual fairs. Once gone, it will never be the same.

–William McHone, Westport, NY (Seasonal)

This building looks like the traditional agricultural fair building. And isn’t that what fairs are about? The celebration of our agricultural; of our traditions; our past and how it informs the present and the future?  No new building can convey those messages so well.  

–Tom Riley, Pittstown, 

This historic building is a huge part of local history and some of my favorite 4H memories took place in this building. Please try to conserve and restore this important feature of Westport and the Adirondacks.

Over the hundred years of its existence this beautiful and historic building has seen thousands of Essex County children and adults pass through its doors.  While there they learned new skills, met friends from other towns and had fun. Before it was neglected, 17 people had offices in the building.   It should be repaired and modernized, but not changed architecturally.    It should be brought it back to its former glory, so that the community can be proud of its history.

–Bryeanna Villani, Keene, NY

Preserve this building.  preserving these Historic Buildings is what Westport, NY has always been know[n] for - the Westport Library Association, Beebe Hall, the Town Hall.

–Peter J. Vanderhoof, Westport, NY

If I, a single woman can resurrect a 68 year old motel... our county can resurrect a historical building at the Fair Grounds...

–Tammy Brown, North Hudson, NY

Having grown up in Westport and with current and future ties to the community, I am in support of renovating and making ADA compliant this beautiful historic building vs. demolition and replacing with a new structure.  It is important for Westport to hold on to some of these beautiful and historic structures as it adds to the rich history of the township.  This doesn’t even consider the cost factor.  With both architects and restoration companies publicly stating the differences in costs (new vs. old) the County Board of Supervisors would be remiss if they did not give additional time and effort to restore vs. remove and replace.

I can’t imagine a new building could begin to provide the sense of place and belonging that this iconic landmark provides.  Restore it!

–Cynthia Reer O’Connor, Branchburg, NJ

I was a 4-Her back in the 70's and 80's and this building played an integral part in my 4-H experience at the Essex County fair.  These experiences shaped my adult life.  Today I am the President of the Stony Kill Foundation and I am a 4-H leader in Dutchess County and lead a group of kids in a 4-H sheep project at the Historic Stony Kill Farm.  These historic (buildings) places tell our story and all efforts should be made to preserve them.   

–Tim Stanley, Poughkeepsie, NY

The preservation of a historical building that is a focal point for the community is always important!

–Sylvie Bimka, Keeseville, NY

You do not destroy buildings that are on the Historical Register...You preserve them. There are too many reasons, which have been many times repeated, to keep this building.. Westport residents will volunteer their time to restore this building, but I can't see them feeling the same about a new replacement building.

–George Maffey, Westport, NY

The WHOLE Fairgrounds complex, which included the CCE building, adds charm & character to the village of Westport.  It would be a shame to change that signature. 

–Dee Stewart Way. Westport, NY (Seasonal)

As a longtime volunteer and Board member at the Whallonsburg Grange, I know well the value of rehabilitating existing buildings. We've saved and renovated two in the past 15 years -- the Grange and Whitcomb's. Both are iconic structures in our community and our town, residents, and the region are well-served by the effort. Our histories are embodied in these places and the CCE building is one that represents both our past and promise for the future. I hope the Board of Supervisors reconsiders demolition and creates a plan to preserve it.

–Mary Nell Bockman, Whallonsburg Grange, Whallonsburg, NY

I have attended the Essex County Fair many times, even though I live in New York City. One of the things that makes it attractive to tourists like me is this beautiful and historic building. If you tear it down, you will lose a part of Westport and Essex County history, and you will also make the fair and Westport less attractive to people coming from elsewhere to spend money in the town.

–Katherine Schoonover, New York, NY

I believe we have a civic responsibility to preserve the historic nature of our community and to preserve its integrity and our sense of place.  We can do this through the preservation of the Cooperative Extension Building.  This building is not only aesthetically important, but it also visually ties us back to our agricultural roots, with its placement at the Fairgrounds.   And it has the added benefit of being a much "greener" approach than demolishment.

–Jane M. Preston, Westport, NY

The Junior Achievement (aka CCE) building represents the confidence in an economically prosperous future for Essex County, as envisioned a century ago. It would me most unfortunate to demolish it at a time when the local and organic food moments have spawned an unexpected renaissance in the county's agricultural sector.

–Virginia Westbrook, Crown Point, NY

Rehabilitation of an existing structure is a much more cost effective measure than building a new structure.  Municipalities across NYS have committed to the preservation and reuse of their historic resources and Essex County should follow their example.

–Beth Crawford, Syracuse, NY

Our Family has spent many hours over 40 years in the Building, from 4-H, Master Gardeners, Community Meetings, and special classes(sewing, raising chickens, cooking, Christmas Delights and so much more) Memorable Times!

–Caroline E. Thompson, Westport, NY

I grew up having 4H classes in this building and later visited to attend a gardening class. This building stands for so much community, love, and togetherness that is deeply missing from our town these days.

–Hannah Schwoebel , Westport, NY

As was done with Floral Hall a restoration project attracts interest, and new energy.

–Valentina Rodriguez, Westport, NY

This is a beautiful old building, stately and handsome, that is well-worth preservation.  I have used this building as a guest and a trainee many times... I thought I was observing intentional neglect over all those years, so that it would become past the point of preservation.  That’s shameful.  Why squander this handsome structure that is after all irreplaceable?

–Laura Steenburg, Willsboro, NY

The building is a beautiful example of 1920s architecture and blends into the surrounding historic area.  Demolishing it needlessly violates the very spirit of the historic town in which is resides.

–Jason McNulty, Troy, NY

Preserving the look and feel of our beautiful town is good economic sense. Let's not destroy that which makes Westport unique. The irreplaceable loss of the old Westport Inn should caution us against any further destruction of our beautiful historic buildings. Rethink use to make it a vibrant community center.

–Mary Rothwell Davis, Westport, NY

I've always found the CCE building excellent, comfortable, and inviting as a central meeting place for all kinds of activities and events.

–Malcolm R. Williston, Westport, NY