[MassHistPres] Demolition by Neglect dilemma?

[bgreg at comcast.net]

Aging residents of historic properties find it difficult to keep up with the expense of maintaining primary residences - let alone outbuildings.  Might there be a dilemma in enforcing ordinances against demolition by neglect given the existence of such hardship in a community?  Could a lawyer representing a party accused of purposeful demolition by neglect point to a person across the street whose decaying property is waived due to hardship?  Where does one draw the line of establishing precedent?  Could this be a double-edged sword?   

Brian Gregory
Boxford HDC