The Clinton A.M.E. Zion Church is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is part of the Upper Housatonic Valley African American Heritage Trail.
Selectman Ed Abrahams said he does like the idea of a public-private partnership because, even if it means the town still owns the building, at least the town would retain some control over its future.
Town manager Jennifer Tabakin told the selectboard Monday night she has received a proposal from Grayhouse Partners, a general contractor specializing in renovations, to buy the Housatonic School.
Comprised of two parts, the historic structure report will provide a detailed assessment of the physical condition of the building, recommendations for immediate actions needed to stabilize the building and a catalog of specific elements of architectural or historic value.