Legal Fund to Preserve SB Butler and Surrounding Community

The purpose of this Keep SB Butler Green GoFundMe donation page is to raise awareness and necessary funds for Legal representation to prevent development of the SB Butler property into high-density, high-rise housing (i.e., think Triton Square Groton, featured picture above). Prior to the SB Butler School closure, Groton Town Council Leadership openly stated in 2021, that high density housing is its desire, hence our legitimate concern.

This group is comprised of Groton town residents who wish to ensure the responsible preservation of the SB Butler school property. Working with town officials, we strive to ensure that any development plans protect the character of the surrounding SB Butler Community and Historic West Mystic neighborhoods for future generations.

Top 10 Reasons to Preserve SB Butler Property:

1. Once land is developed, it very rarely returns to green space

2. A major draw to the town of Groton is the quaint village of Mystic. Keeping the area around downtown in-line with the rest of the community is important to maintain the economic draw of downtown

3. The SB Butler property is very close to the historic district so keeping the “old town” feel of the property is important to overall draw of the Mystic area of Groton.

4. Green spaces promote physical and mental health. By providing opportunities for physical activity, green spaces encourage healthier lifestyles and promote overall wellness.

5. Green spaces promote peace and relaxation by reducing stress and anxiety. They also support social well-being by providing a place for community interaction.

6. The town of Groton has shown a need for athletic fields and SB Butler already has a baseball field on the property. In addition, there is ample space to add additional athletic fields and expanded playgrounds in a safe environment away from traffic.

7. Public parks embody the American tradition of preserving public lands for the benefit and use of all.

8. Parks preserve critical wildlife habitat.

9. Members of the town have expressed desire for a community garden experience and the existing Butler property is ideally suited for this kind of environmental development.

10. Many people who live around the property have a special bond with the school, as they themselves have attended the school, or have had children or grandchildren attend the school. The school was a vital part of this community, and keeping the property as green space would help keep the wonderful history of the neighborhood intact.