2001-03-19 Historical Commission Minutes

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Reading Historical Commission Minutes i 6VD March 19, 2001 To' ,NN CLERK ' R A NG, MASS. Attending: Virginia Adams Roberta Sullivan 2001 APR 25 A 9' 40 Louise Sandberg Col. Wilbar Hoxie Mark Cardono Judith Mitchell 1. Called to order at 7:35 PM. Virginia functioning as chair. 2. Treasurer's Report: Attached 3. 1375 Main St.: Permit to demolish was presented. Received March 9th. Virginia reported that the property is on both the local and state registries of historic properties. Virginia made a motion that the property at 1375 Main St. be declared a potentially significant structure under 5.13.3.3 of the bylaw and to make an initial determination of positive. Approved 4-0-0. The developer wants to tear down the structure to build 8 units of housing, some of it affordable. The comprehensive permit is exempt from much of the town's zoning (aquifer rulings and conservation). The builder would like a waiver of the the demolition delay that may be imposed by the Reading Historical Commission. Virginia feels that the Historical Commission does not fall in with other bodies that enforce municipal building laws. It does not hamper or prevent construction only delays demolition. The ZBA could grant a comprehensive permit, conditional to using the original house. RHC can release all or part of the property immediately. The owner, by law, can convert a house of more than 8 rooms into a two family making it more affordable. Restoration was used in the development of 89 Main St. and it was very successful. Options would include moving or using the house in the development. If ZBA grants the comprehensive permit the house will come down. The RHC hearing is scheduled for April 5, Thursday at 7:30. The notice will appear in the paper on March 22 and notices to abutters on the 29th of March, 4. Old Police Station: Board of Selectmen will make their decision tomorrow night (March 20). The Chamber of Commerce opposes the reuse of the OPS. The commission will make a presentation at the Selectmen's meeting. Roberta and Virginia compiled justifications to convince the Board to grant the OPS to the RHA. Roberta suggested that Kathy present our opinions to the Board. 5. Pierce Organ factory. There is a developer. 6. Visit Pierce St, Harnden St., and 1375 Main St. 7. Adjourned: 9:10 Approved as amended April 17.