SUNDERLAND – Local residents on Saturday had the opportunity to tour the former Sinauer Associates/Oxford University Press building, which Sunderland is considering as the potential future site for the South County Senior Center. The 12,000-square-foot building, located at 23 Plumtree Road, has been vacant since Oxford University Press relocated in the summer of 2023.

“Seniors did not think they would see a potential permanent location in their lifetime,” said Senior Center Director Jennifer Remillard. “They feel like their needs aren’t being heard. If we had a permanent location imagine how much more we could offer.”

The town is exploring the possibility of purchasing the building, which is listed by Colebrook Realty Services at $1.95 million. A town appraisal values the property at $1.8 million, which is the maximum amount the town can pay if it decides to proceed with the purchase. The primary intention is to rent most of the space to the South County Senior Center, serving seniors in Sunderland, Deerfield, and Whately. Additionally, there is consideration for housing other municipal offices, including potential use by Frontier Community Access Television (FCAT).

The acquisition of the building would require approval from Sunderland voters at the annual Town Meeting to move forward with renovations and eventual relocation. Currently, the South County Senior Center faces challenges with its existing setup, offering activities in two different locations on alternating days of the week, leading to confusion for members and coordination difficulties for staff.

Remillard highlighted the significance of having a permanent location for seniors, addressing their needs and providing a centralized facility. The current arrangement involves renting space at Holy Family Roman Catholic Church and offices at 22 Amherst Road, each of which are inadequate for accommodating the desired range of activities. The new building boasts multiple ADA accessible bathrooms and a shower, a valuable feature not present in the current locations.

Despite concerns about travel distance for members, Remillard assured that the center offers transportation services. The building includes a courtyard, ideal for summer activities, with electrical hookups for potential events. The 3.5-acre property provides space for raised garden beds, outdoor classes, and games like cornhole, horseshoes, and shuffleboard.

Plans for renovations involve removing non-weight-bearing truss walls to create larger rooms for exercise classes. The goal is to offer simultaneous programs, addressing a limitation of the current space. Funding considerations include a $6,000 grant from LifePath for exercise classes, and there is potential to expand offerings by charging a small fee.

Existing features of the building include a library with built-in shelving, adaptable for various activities, and a kitchen that would require upgrades to meet the senior center’s needs. Selectboard Chairman Nathaniel Waring highlighted the potential for expansion in the new space and accommodating more people.

Proposed changes also include converting a room near the entrance into a permanent food pantry for seniors, offering more accessible and stable access. Additional rooms would be designated for confidential appointments, and providing private spaces for assistance with applications for fuel assistance or food stamps.

Remillard emphasized community support and the value the senior center brings, anticipating increased visibility and access by moving to the new location. Last year’s postcard mailing in July generated a significant response, indicating community interest and potential benefits associated with the relocation.

Bella Levavi can be reached at 413-930-4579 or blevavi@recorder.com.