HomeMy WebLinkAbout2019-02-13 Historic District Commission Town of Reading
Meeting Minutes Vc0
TOWN CLERK
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Board - Committee - Commission - Council: S-p
2019 JUL -9 AM 9: 02
Historic District Commission
Date: 2019-02-13 Time: 7:00 PM
Building: Reading Town Hall Location: Conference Room
Address: 16 Lowell Street Session:
Purpose: Meeting Version:
Attendees: Members - Present:
Everett Blodgett, Chairman; Virginia Adams
Amelia Freedman & Pino D'Orazio- Alternate Member(s)
Members - Not Present:
Priscilla Poehler, Greg Maganzini, Ilene Bornstein
Others Present:
Virginia Blodgett, Reading Historical Commission (RHC) - Johnathan Barnes,
Chairman; Sharlene Reynolds Santo, lack Williams, Ron Weston, Samantha
Couture
Minutes Respectfully Submitted By: Kim Saunders
Topics of Discussion:
Mr. Blodgett appointed Amelia Freedman and Pino D'Orazio as full HDC members and
opened the meeting at 7:03 PM
Mr. Barnes explained the HDC is attending the meeting to discuss the two site visits at 186
Summer Avenue.
The RHC briefly commented on the progress at 79-81 Salem Street, 119 Salem Street and
Postmark Square.
186 Summer Avenue Discussion
The HDC and RHC members gave their opinion on the appearance of the interior and
exterior of 186 Summer Avenue. The following was discussed:
• Interior photographs of exotic molding, fireplaces, stairway etc.;
• Evidence of foxes burrowing;
• Exterior trim will need to be replaced;
• No interior damage;
• The back addition not viewed as important as the main dwelling;
• Significance evidence of water damage on the wall;
• Moisture area around windows and upstairs barely noticeable;
• Northside roof deteriorating; and
• Kitchen wall removed - water leakage in north section
After the discussion, the members agreed the immediate concern that the property was
being neglected to allow for a demolition has been alleviated.
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A discussion was held on ways to ensure the Applicant follows the plans that were
approved by the HDC and how to enforce. Mr. Barnes suggested the HDC investigate
what rights they have as a Commission to enforce and oversee the project. He said he
will review the Preservation Agreement.
Mr. Williams stated he had no concerns with the interior since it is proposed to be
completely gutted, but does have concerns with the exterior being renovated as
approved.
Mr. Blodgett expressed concern the proposed underpinning on the foundation could
result in the foundation collapsing. He added if the foundation is above grade the HDC
should have jurisdiction. Ms. Adams commented the Building Inspector should be at the
property to monitor difficult situations.
Mr. Barnes suggested the RHC keep 186 Summer Avenue on their agenda as on-going
project in case an issue arises.
Mr. Blodgett questioned if the Applicant or the contractor has experience with rehabbing
Historical homes.
Mr. Barnes brought forward the email from Town Counsel where it was stated the
Building Inspector did a site visit and concluded there were no concerns with the
property being neglected.
Mr. Blodgett said he will contact the Building Inspector to schedule a meeting to discuss
this project. He said the next meeting for the HDC will be held in March and will follow
up on the discussion with the Building Inspector.
Motion made by Ms. Adams, seconded by Mr. D'Orazio, to adjourn the discussion at
7:27 PM Vote 4-0-0.
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