What’s New With the Franciscan Center Property

The 70-acre plot of land in West Andover owned by the Franciscan’s has been up for sale for several years but it’s not exactly clear what has been going on with the property. A proposal by assisted living community developer Wingate came forward about a year ago but the zoning on the land does not allow for such a facility.

Now, the town has decided to take the issue to the public and ask them what they think would be best on this plot of land. Planning director Paul Materazzo said that they have formed a task force to investigate this and they want the public’s input.

A meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, Oct. 19 at 7 p.m. at Memorial Hall Library to obtain information from the public about what they would like to see on this piece of land.

Materazzo said that residents may want the land to be a residential housing community, a business district, or a 55-plus community.

“The town has a unique opportunity,” said Materazzo

Once the town can gain a consensus on what should be done on the property then Town Meeting can vote on changes to the zoning, which is currently just residential.

Materazzo said that the Franciscans have been fairly silent throughout this process.

During the Oct. 19 meeting, the Task Force is specifically asking residents for this:

• Find out what we have learned about the property and the surrounding area.
• Learn more about what an overlay district could do for this property and the town.
• Tell us what you think is the best approach.