2010-06-21 Historical Commission Minutes

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June 21, 2010 Town of Reading Historical Commission 16 Lowell St. Reading, MA 01867 To our friends at the Historical Commission of Reading: I'm writing today to ask for your support of the development plan before you regarding our family's property at 10 Pierce St. As you know, we have been the owners of the Samuel Pierce Organ Pipe Factory for over 35 years. Over the last decade you have seen that we have been presented with offers to purchase and develop the property on many occasions. All of which, for a variety of reasons, have fallen through. We have always tried to pursue development deals with investors who appreciated the historic nature of the property. And this most recent deal, with Bill Johnson of WPJ Development, is no different. He's communicated a true appreciation of the value of the historic rehabilitation of the building. But he's also presented a unique addition to the property. One that we think adds tremendous value to the neighborhood and is in keeping with the ever-changing nature of this parcel over the years. The addition of a new return from the back right of the building will create a natural courtyard and ultimately more open space. We recognize that this, and the necessity to rebuild some portions of the building that have fallen into disrepair, represent some hardship from the commission's point of you. We would like to go on record as the owner's and caretakers of this property, that this plan presents our best option and is in fact in keeping with the nature of Samuel Pierce's evolutionary development style. During these last few years we have invested very little in the upkeep of the building. The investment, given the pending sale, did not present a reasonable: ROI. Mr. Johnson's necessity to remove some of the building and rebuild is not only reasonable, but also will allow him to repurpose some of the old materials in more self evident ways throughout the residences. I hope you will understand that if this project should not go through, we will be forced, considering my father's age and health, to take whatever concept may be presented hereafter, even if this means pursuing a demolition permit. It is simply an honest, harsh reality we must now face after years of pursuing the perfect deal. With our respect and appreciation, David Strand On behalf of the Strand Family 10 Rai/road Street, Newburyport, MA 01950 978-463-0780