Advisory Group to Oversee Restoration of Kemper-Gunn House

First Selectman Jim Marpe announced today the formation of an advisory group to oversee the relocation and restoration of the Kemper-Gunn House. The historic site is slated to move from Church Lane to Elm Street, within the Baldwin Parking Lot.

"This is a group which together has the right mix of experience, knowledge and skills to move this project forward in an expeditious manner and will provide the proper oversight to protect the town’s interests." Marpe in a Selectman’s Office press release from earlier today.

The group consists of Selectwoman Helen Garten, who will lead the team, and Dewey Loselle, chairman of the Downtown Steering Committee, Matthew Mandell, chairman of the RTM’s P&Z Committee and Joseph Strickland, chairman of the Public Site and Building Committee. They will also oversee the development of the lease, plus administrative tasks and future business opportunities for Kemper-Gunn, according to the release.

A centerpiece for Westport, the Kemper-Gunn House was built around 1885. Previously the town sought a developer to restore and rent retail space to local businesses and entrepreneurs. DC Kemper-Gunn was the winning bidder and has been working to renovate the house.

“This is an innovative project that saves a historic resource from demolition thereby helping to protect a piece of Westport’s heritage and preserve its character,” Marpe said.