[MassHistPres] Verizon Temporary Generator

[Garrett Laws]

Does anyone have the definition of temporary for such an issue?

Garrett

On Tue, Jun 23, 2009 at 10:44 AM, Jonathan Feist <jfeist at charter.net> wrote:

> Hi all,
>
> Verizon owns a property in the Harvard Common Historical DIstrict. It has
> no driveway, and is very close to the street.
>
> A year ago, they parked a temporary backup generator in front, on the
> street. It is the size of a small truck. Everyone hates it; it's a rare
> blight in an otherwise beautiful and untouched area.
>
> In response to neighbors complaining about it for a year, they have applied
> to enclose it in a tall fence. This would look pretty bad, but better than
> the generator itself. A  similar fence is on the other side of the building
> to hide something else; this was approved by the HDC before my time.
>
> The additional fence would really be a blight. The first fence is already
> pretty awkward looking, and we're looking at a second wrong to make a right.
>
> Verizon says that there is no other possible place for the generator. The
> town has offered them a parking spot for it in another location, and they
> have declined. The planning board has approved the fence.
>
> So, my question is, does the fence housing the generator make the generator
> itself a permanent "structure," and is there any leverage we might have to
> force them to get rid of the temporary generator?
>
> The neighbors seem to want the fence, after being reconciled to the fact
> that the generator isn't going anywhere. Is it true that utilities can put
> their necessary gear where they please, without respecting local ordinances?
>
> --Jonathan
>
>
>
>
> ================================
> Jonathan Feist
> jfeist at charter.net • 978-772-4864
> Blog: Delights and Processes http://blogs.townonline.com/delight/
> Writing about Music http://jonathanfeist.berkleemusicblogs.com/
>
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-- 
Cheers,
Garrett

Garrett Laws, Manager
The Copper & Slate Company
Fine Roofing and Exterior Finish Carpentry
238A Calvary Street
Waltham, MA 02453
Ph: (781) 893-1916
Fax: (781) 893-2041

Copperandslate at Gmail.com or
GLaws at hbuilders.net
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