By DONNA KENNY KIRWAN

PAWTUCKET — After a lengthy and reportedly, sometimes “stormy” discussion among its congregation, the future of the historic Read-Ott Mansion on Walcott Street, owned by the Assumption of the Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church, remains unresolved.

The mansion, built in 1842 by a wealthy hardware merchant, did escape the wrecking ball, as the congregation voted against demolition, which had been one of the options, according to Parish Council President Anastasia Susset. However, Susset said that another motion made by the Parish Council, to paint the exterior of the mansion, was also voted down after the congregation failed to reach a consensus.
The stately, 6,000-square foot mansion had formerly been used as the church’s parish house. However, in the last decade or so, the home has had little use and is in need of cosmetic repair and other renovations. Prompted by some complaints from the Quality Hill neighborhood, the property had been issued a citation by the city several months back for its peeling exterior paint.
According to church officials, a  steering committee was formed to evaluate the mansion and its future use. Architectural students from Roger Williams University conducted an assessment of the property and came
up with a list of possible uses. Pawtucket Planning Director Michael Cassidy was also consulted to provide information about zoning and building code issues that would be required for each of the suggested uses.

On Aug. 30, the results of that study were presented to the members of the church congregation, and last Sunday, the congregation was invited to take a vote on some options.

Susset told the TIMES this week that, despite several hours of debate, “there was not a consensus on what to do, and motions to both demolish and paint were voted down.”

“The mayor, the city council and the neighbors have spoken in support of saving the building and we respect that,” stated Susset. “Obviously, more research needs to be done to figure out a strategic plan that will protect the assets of the church and the neighborhood while at the same time being sure that we can afford the choices made.”

Susset added that Pawtucket Planning Director Michael Cassidy has been “very helpful” in explaining the process involved in looking at the various options for the mansion. “And we will continue to work with the city as we try to plan our future,” she stated.

She said that the church members are faced with “a difficult decision,” especially given the current economy, and are divided over what should happen with the mansion. She said the congregation wants to be able to take more time to explore the various options. “We still have to do our due diligence,” she stated.

Susset added that church officials will appear in Pawtucket’s Municipal Housing Court as planned on Nov. 20 at a hearing to discuss the citation over the exterior painting of the mansion.
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