Mayor, Town Council Respond to Gen. Thayer Home Demolition Rumor

BRAINTREE, MA - Town officials have not heard of any plans by Thayer Academy to demolish homes in town.

Responding to the rumors that circulated on social media, Mayor Joseph Sullivan said at Tuesday's Town Council meeting that the only new plans he knows of coming from the private school relate to the redevelopment of the tennis courts.

Monday, a post appeared on the Facebook group "Braintree/Weymouth Civic Community," alleging that Thayer Academy was planning on razing homes on Washington Street, including the home of Gen. Sylvanus Thayer.

"I want to make it clear that we in the mayor’s office have received no information at all about tearing down that home on Washington Street," Sullivan said.

Councilman Michael Owens said he has not seen any formal plans for a project, but backed keeping Gen. Thayer's house from being demolished.

"This home not only contributes to the history and beauty of the neighborhood but the town’s identity as a whole," Owens said.

Councilman Charles Kokoros recommended sending a letter to the school stating that the town does not wish to see the house torn down, adding that he would like to see a representative of the school come to a meeting and explain their proposal.

Representatives of the school were unable to attend Tuesday's meeting.

"It’s time to have a public conversation and hopefully, the next time a councilor reaches out they’ll have time to come down and answer our questions," Kokoros said.

The town does not have an ordinance that requires a demolition delay, but Councilman John Mullaney said he would attempt to fast track a measure.