Saint Anne’s seeks $401,125 to continue rehabilitation of historic church

Ginger Smallcock, representing Saint Anne’s Episcopal Church, asked the committee for $401,125 to continue a three‑phase rehabilitation of the church campus. Smallcock said year one focused on roof work and gutters and that year two would address exterior woodwork, window frames and casings and specialized repairs to chapel windows and rotted woodwork.

"We, you all wisely suggested that we split this into a three‑year project," Smallcock said, describing progress on phase one and noting the parish has contributed funds and is pursuing other grants. She said the rectory has been identified on the National Register in connection with importance to the Underground Railroad; the National Park Service has expressed interest in signage and education work.

Smallcock also said the parish is in detailed conversations with Riverbend (formerly Lowell House), a local drug and alcohol treatment provider, about using Edson Hall behind the church for a community kitchen and a recovery café to support people in later stages of recovery (the transcript described a gap in services after two years of intensive support and an emphasis on supports through year seven).

Committee members asked for clarification on what the funding request would cover and for a recap of other funding already received; Smallcock said the parish would be glad to provide background on prior funding and current uses. No funding decision was recorded at the meeting; the committee will deliberate on Jan. 29.