Letter to the editor: Preserving the Plumer House

We were delighted to read about Gregory Barr’s reuse of the historic John C. Plumer House (“Historic West Newton house converted to Airbnb rental,” June 28), and hope generations of visitors will enjoy it. Unfortunately, the article’s descriptions of the sale of the property and the restrictions imposed by the state were inaccurate.

The article stated that a $1,250 state grant made to the borough in 1968 was not paid back because “West Newton officials chose a different option.” That is wrong. Mon Valley Initiative repaid the funds, plus $17,000 in interest. Rather than keeping the money, state officials allowed it to be used on other recreation efforts for West Newton Borough. Borough council directed the money to support the West Newton Community Swimming Pool.

Following our full payment, the state lien was removed by the Pennsylvania General Assembly, thanks in part to the efforts of then-state Rep. Justin Walsh.

We are happy to have played a small role in preserving the Plumer House, and wish Mr. Barr the very best of success.

Laura R. Zinski

Homestead

The writer is chief executive officer of the Mon Valley Initiative.