2006-01-03 Historical Commission Minutes

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Reading Historical Commissior January 3, 2006 Attending: Lt. Col. Wilbar Hoxie Virginia Adams - Chairperson Sharlene Reynolds Santo Mark Cardono Secretary Roberta Sullivan Kathy Greenfield Minutes Barn at 717 Pearl Street n Tony Pelusi - Owner ~ E P Paul Cigal - Chestnut:'Q W&6. T71G~ Clay Jones Karen Herrick Diane Jones Call to order 7:30 PM 717 Pearl Street: The owner, Tony Pelusi, wants sell the barn to a timber framer, Paul Cigal, who wants to dismantle the barn, and rebuild it in Claremont, New Hampshire. Mr. Pelusi is hoping that he will not have to go through another 6 month demolition delay. He added that he has made much effort to save it, and he would like to have a story about it published in the newspaper. Paul Cigal, a timber framer, spoke about his experience and about spending time documenting the barn. He explained that he makes drawings, takes photographs, numbers the pieces, and repairs damaged material. He will provide copies of drawings, and a photo album. Roberta suggested that a sign be placed on the reconstructed barn stating that it is Reading, MA. Paul Cigal commented that based on the quality of joinery and hewing, it is a very high quality barn. He believes that it will go back together easily because it is so well built. He added that there are granite posts in barn, which he claims is rare. He plan is to reassemble the barn and convert it into a residence. The stone foundation will remain. He has a tentative schedule to begin dismantling the barn in 2 weeks, and he has estimated the dismantling process to take 4 to 6 weeks. The Commission is welcome to visit during the dismantling work. Wilbar asked if they were going to be careful around the tree. Paul Cigal answered that there is no reason for his company to go near the tree. Sharlene asked if they have applied for a demolition permit. Mr. Pelusi believes that he has already gone through the delay. Clay asked if barn has been altered. Paul Cigal answered that some floor was added and some knee braces were cut to install windows. Virginia asked if they would have to go through the Conservation Commission. Mr. Pelusi answered no. Roberta and Mr. Pelusi discussed the demolition delay. Mr. Pelusi contacted the Building Inspector, and was told that it is up to The Commission. Paul Cigal added that other towns have not considered dismantling a structure to be demolition. A discussion of the definition of demolition ensued, which was followed by a discussion of legalities of application for demolition permit. Mr. Pelusi will contact the Building Inspector and ask if the application is still valid. If it is still valid, The Commission will work with the owner to document the barn. Wilbar likes the idea of dismantling and rebuilding the barn. The Commission's consensus is to send email to the Building Inspector to remind him of what has happened and that the building is released provided the current application is still valid. Mark will send the email to Building Inspector. Historic Preservation Zoning Relief Bylaw: Upcoming events: A presentation for the ZBA (Zoning Board of Appeals) will be made on Thursday, January 5, 2006 at their meeting. A workshop with CPDC (Community Planning and Development Commission) will be held on Monday, January 5, 2006. The presentation to the Selectmen is scheduled for January 24, 2006. The Commission discussed the wording of the Bylaw. Miscellaneous: The Garden Club requested a letter of commendation for their sensitivity to the Town Common when working on the downtown beautification work. They would like it by March 2006. Karen will write the letter. The Commission has a senior from the Property Tax program typing in evaluation lists. The work is going well, and will continue to June 30, 2006. There are also 3 boys doing work for The Commission through Community Service. RHC Minutes Rhc20060103.doc Page 1 of 2