2005-01-18 Historical Commission Minutes

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Reading Historical Commission Minutes Demolition Hearing for 1-15 Harnden Street and 12-20 Pleasant Street January 18, 2005 Attending: Mark Cardono - Secretary Sharlene Reynolds Santo Roberta Sullivan -Acting Chair Brad Latham Attorney Ken Fadden Mark Investments Michael Cassavoy Edwards and Kelcey Call to order 8:05 PM Brad Latham presented information on why they are requesting no demolition delay. Michael Cassavoy explained how they are trying to blend the building into the location. They are going to try to match the Latham Building's brick. Brad Latham added that the Selectmen requested that they keep the pizza shop, but it would be too expensive. He requested that there be no delay imposed on the demolition. He explained that the previous fire and the out buildings have ruined the historic structure. He offered to let the Commission into the building to photograph, measure, and salvage historic aspects of the building. Ken Fadden added that the fire in 1961 destroyed the upper features of the building. Roberta read a brief history of the 1857 building. Brad Latham offered the Commission $500 toward the funding of preservation. Roberta added that the look of the square will be lost. Michael Cassavoy stated that he will work with the Commission. Roberta expressed the concerns of the Commission, such as the brick size and color, the mortar, the blank wall on Pleasant Street. Michael Cassavoy said they will add some windows, of which, some will be used for the display of Town history and community notices. Sharlene brought up the Commission's concerns about the awnings. Michael Cassavoy said that the awnings will stick out approximately 4 feet. Roberta suggested that there be fewer awnings than the current plans. Brad Latham said that the awning change would have to go before the CPDC. The CPDC will be meeting next Monday, January 24, 2005. Roberta said the Commission will put together a memo with recommendations for the CPDC. Brad Latham requested a copy of the memo. Sharlene moved that the commission close the Demolition Delay hearing for 1-15 Hamden Street and 12-20 Pleasant Street. Mark seconded the motion. Vote - 3-0-0. The Commission discussed the request for no delay on the property. Sharlene moved that the proposed demolition of the structure(s) at 1-15 Hamden Street and 12-20 Pleasant Street, Reading, MA would be detrimental to the historical or architectural heritage and resources of the Town, and that demolition be delayed (per General Bylaw section 5.13.3.5). Roberta seconded the motion. The Commission discussed the addition of documentation and design review. Sharlene amended the motion to read: Sharlene moved that the proposed demolition of the structure(s) at 1- 15 Hamden Street and 12-20 Pleasant Street, Reading, MA would be detrimental to the historical or architectural heritage and resources of the Town, and that demolition be delayed (per General Bylaw section 5.13.3.5), provided the Commission has the opportunity to incorporate design changes, so that the structure fits in the town center, and the opportunity to document the historic structure. Mark seconded the motion. Vote 3-0-0. The Commission will notify the Building Inspector, the Petitioner, and Brad Latham of the outcome. The Commission needs to prepare a proposal of design changes for the CPDC. A discussion of the design concerns began. A memo will be written stating the concerns of the Commission regarding the windows' and window displays' detraction from the look of the Town Center, and a request for a written statement allowing the Commission to have access to the building for dabpmentation. Adjourned 10:05 PM RHC Minutes Rhc01182005.doc Page 1 of 1