Frequently Asked Questions

How long has the Complex been vacant?
North American Rockwell closed its doors in 1978 according to most reports. Parts of the building were leased out following that time frame, but it has been largely vacant since the early 1980s.

How large is the Complex?
Until the last several years, the Complex was about 1.6 million square feet of industrial buildings on about 22 acres of land in downtown Hopedale.  The current owner had several dilapidated buildings torn down and what remains is about 1.2 million square feet.

Do the buildings in the Complex contain hazardous waste?
(Chief G. should comment on this…) Asbestos and other hazards have been removed from the buildings’ interiors.  In early 2006, the owners are reportedly removing the creosote-soaked wooden blocks that line some of the floors (the floors are concrete beneath the blocks). The buildings are essentially empty, meaning there are few, if any, machines or other items stored inside.

Have there ever been fires in the Complex while it has been vacant?
Coming soon...

How much does the Complex contribute to our tax base?
The buildings, due to their dilapidated condition (no heat, no running water, etc.) are currently assessed at $0.  The land is valued at $631,000.  In total, the building contributed just slightly more than $12,000 to the town’s tax rolls in fiscal year 2006.

Why doesn’t the town take the Complex by eminent domain?
Eminent domain is a costly legal process that often takes years to complete, and the outcome is not always successful.  The town currently believes it is in our best interest to work with, rather than against, the current owners of the Complex because working together we will likely achieve our goals more quickly.

Can the town require the buildings be torn down?
If the buildings were creating an immediate public danger, the town would have some leverage in requiring the dangerous structure be removed.  We don’t believe the buildings are at that point at present. There are, however, dangerous situations in terms of access to the property which could lead to vandalism and injury and the town has asked that these situations be remedied.

If the buildings are revitalized, what will the town gain?
At present it is too soon to tell how the town will benefit.  However, by being involved in the thought process of what the structures could be or helping determine the best use for the land, we believe the town will have ample opportunity to provide input into options that will benefit all of our residents.