To the editors:

I take issue with Mr. Brier’s assertion in his Oct. 3 letter that failing to redevelop the former Zion Bible College land is “a blessing in disguise”. Since Shine Harmony purchased the property for nearly $4 million 7 years ago, this historical parcel of land has slowly dilapidated into a morass of dead trees, broken windows and dysfunctional buildings. 

Development of Zion Bible College still remains a serious problem to solve.  

What concerns me most with any plan to fold Zion development into a broader evaluation of public use land is the financial and operational complexity such a project would bring. Case in point, after years of trying, top-notch real estate developers could not figure out ways to finance redevelopment of Zion from a college campus to a senior living facility. This despite many believing that converting Zion to senior living was and remains the most viable economic solution for the community and property owners.

Barrington should focus on identifying and evaluating specific projects that preserve the beauty and integrity of Zion’s historical buildings while providing ample return to spur investor interest in development. Perhaps an ad hoc committee of concerned residents could be tasked with outreach and evaluation of projects for the land, taking into account the current and potential tax status of the property. The town council could set a firm deadline for the committee to report findings and recommendations to the town council. 

Zion’s owners, Shine Harmony, have had years to execute on what I understood their mandate was for the property — to create an educational facility. But to date, the property remains unkempt and underutilized.  Barrington should be figuring out creative uses for the property that serve the community, and the investors and owners risking their capital.

Jim Sanderson

Barrington