Historical Commission Asks for Increased Demolition Delay

The Historical Commission is seeking an extension of the demolition bylaw from its current 12 months to 18 months. 

The delay applies to buildings over 50 years old at the time of demolition application. 

"The intent this year is to try to preserve the exterior and architectural character of the town," explained Town Historian Richard DeSorgher at a selectmen's meeting last month (before he was elected to the board).

"The intent is to try to work with the developer/owner to find ways to preserve the historic structure, find ways to incorporate the developer's plans instead of just demolish it," said DeSorgher.

The town's current 12-month demolition delay was enacted in 1993. 

The extension to 18 months is to try to discourage developers to "just wait it out." 

DeSorgher said the 18 month delay will make developers take it more seriously.

"It has the developer and town work together to protect the town's character and, at the same time, make the project financial profitable for the developer," said DeSorgher. 

He said he sees potential problem areas on North Street and East Main Street where the lot sizes are deep, and tempting for developers to build apartment and condominium complexes.

"It's going to clearly change, I think, the character of the town," he said. 

During his presentation, DeSorgher showed a slide show presentation of several homes that have been demolished including:

• Curtis Mansion, 50 North Street
• Mitchell Mansion, 60 North Street
• 78 North Street
• 98 North Street
• Pfaff Mansion, 121 North Street
• 367 Main Street
• 405 Main Street
• 414 Main Street
• 520 Main Street
• Harward Estate, 555 Main Street
• Harding Post Office 02042, 80 Harding Street 
• 9 South Street
• 34 South Street barn
• 111 Pine Street (3 unique barns)
• 164 Pine Street
• 121 West Street
• 62 Bridge Street
• 12 Elm Street
• 66 Foundry Street
• 53-55 Brook Street (part of original Wilson house)
• 84 Harding Street
• Harding and West Mill

"There've been a lot of homes with character that we've lost," he said. 

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• Historical Commission Explains Proposed Simple Changes to Demolition Bylaw