One More Appeal Puts Hold on 900 Worcester Street Plans

Rome got back to the Wellesley parishioners at St. James Church, and said "sorry, but no." 

However, they are asking the same Vatican entity to reconsider, just more time.

The Board of Selectmen were told at Monday night's meeting, and officials say the Advisory Committee and 900 Worcester Street committee have been informed. Wellesley Selectman Katherine "Gig" Babson said the town has put its plans to build a swimming pool there on hold. 

"For the moment, going to have to sit back and wait longer while this matter is being resolved," Babson said.

At the moment, the town has no word on when the final say will come back from Rome. 

The town has signed a purchase agreement with the Archdiocese for the plot of land on which the church sits. The purchase is contingent on the town performing due diligence. Before doing that, the town is awaiting final resolution between the church and its parishioners. 

The current appeal was made in June 2012, and was said to be the last appeal available to them. 

After the final okay comes from the Archdiocese, the town has 60 days to do due diligence. Robinson said this is like a home inspection, but applied to a commercial transaction.

The town gauged residents' interest in how to use the land with a survey in November of last year. The land could be turned into a pool.