As reported in the Brooklyn Eagle, Martin Golden's spokeperson John Quaglione addressed the Green Church issue at a press conference on June 12:'Senator Golden respects the history and magnificence of the church and all that it has done for the faith of so many, and for the good of the community,' said Golden's spokesperson John Quaglione. 'However, Senator Golden has and continues to support the wishes and decisions made by the congregation of the Bay Ridge United Methodist Church and Pastor Robert Emerick.'
Golden (who, at least once it was saved, supported St. Brigid's in Manhattan) would also support the community, Quaglione said, 'if they can match the price of the commercial offer, which is fair.' (an anonymous investor, believed to be Irish-American philanthropist Chuck Feeney, gave the Archdiocese $10 million not to sell and demolish the church, and gave another $10 million to the parishioners to repair the church and keep the parochial school open.)
Said Golden's rep, 'This church signifies the beginning of many churches that will close. If these closings do happen, I would like to see senior housing or affordable independent living, or a nursing home, be what replaces it, something that can serve the needs of the community — not more condos.'"
Link to the article from the Brooklyn Eagle:
http://www.brooklyneagle.com/categories/category.php?category_id=5&id=21155
Related article from the Brooklyn Paper:
http://www.brooklynpaper.com/stories/31/25/31_25_green_chuch_fans_in.html
