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The demolition of the Mary Lane building in Ware is underway, but the process isn't without its controversy. Local groups are intensifying their fight to ensure the site is used for much-needed healthcare services and that the town retains greater control over its trust funds. Concerns are rising as residents express skepticism about Baystate Health's promises to preserve the historic Wetherby Building, particularly noting the alarming absence of windows.

For decades, the Mary Lane building served as the cornerstone of healthcare in Ware, housing the entire Baystate Mary Lane Hospital. Now, as demolition progresses, residents are demanding accountability and transparency regarding the future of the property. The core of their argument revolves around two key issues: securing healthcare access for the community and asserting local control over the significant trust funds associated with the former hospital.

Healthcare Concerns Take Centre Stage

Ware has faced a growing healthcare crisis, with limited access to essential services. Residents argue that the demolition site represents a prime opportunity to re-establish or expand healthcare facilities, addressing the critical needs of the community. They're urging Baystate Health to prioritize healthcare development on the site, rather than pursuing alternative uses that might not benefit local residents.

“We’re not against progress, but we need to ensure that the needs of our community are met,” stated a spokesperson for one of the local advocacy groups. “Healthcare should be the priority, and we’re determined to make sure that’s what happens.”

Trust Fund Control: A Matter of Local Governance

The Mary Lane Hospital trust funds, accumulated over years of dedicated service, represent a significant financial resource for the town of Ware. Residents are pushing for greater local control over these funds, believing that a local board or committee would be better equipped to allocate them in ways that directly benefit the community. They argue that decisions regarding the funds should be made locally, rather than by a larger, external organization.

“These funds were generated by the generosity of our community, and they should be used for the benefit of our community,” explained another resident. “We need to ensure that decisions about these funds are made with the best interests of Ware at heart.”

Skepticism Surrounds Baystate Health's Promises

While Baystate Health has pledged to preserve the 1923 Wetherby Building, a significant portion of the original hospital complex, residents are expressing serious doubts. The most visible sign of their skepticism is the alarming number of missing windows from the Wetherby Building. This has fueled concerns that the building is not being adequately protected during the demolition process and that Baystate Health's commitment to preservation is questionable.

“The missing windows are a clear indication that Baystate Health isn’t taking preservation as seriously as they claim,” said a concerned resident. “We’re worried that they’ll find a way to diminish the building’s historical significance or even demolish it entirely.”

Looking Ahead: A Community Determined to Fight

The fight for healthcare and local control in Ware is far from over. Local groups are organizing rallies, contacting elected officials, and raising awareness about the issues. They remain determined to hold Baystate Health accountable and ensure that the demolition site is used to benefit the community. The coming weeks and months will be crucial in shaping the future of Ware and its access to essential healthcare services.