[MassHistPres] Are there any successful 'demolition by neglect' bylaws?

[pschneider]

   Worcester approached this with a "Nuisances on Property" ordinance 
that applies to all buildings, not just historic ones. The ordinance 
sets standards for property and building maintenance including such 
statements as "all structures...shall be maintained in a structurally 
sound condition and in good repair...". Failure to meet the standards 
can result in a fine of up to $300 a day. This ordinance has recently 
been successful in persuading an absentee landlord to sell a "neglected" 
historic building at a reasonable price, enabling its preservation.

Peter Schneider
Worcester Historic Commission



On 6/1/2011 6:36 AM, Daniel Bibel wrote:
> Here's the situation:  A private school moved into town.  They have 
> done some good things to their property, but one of the buildings they 
> own, the Jacob Cushman house, has been neglected and is in poor 
> shape.  The Historical Commission has contacted the school, sent  
> letters, met with one of their Trustees - all in an effort to explain 
> the historical significance of the building.  We've suggested some low 
> cost options to reduce continued damage (cut down the vines creeping 
> up the walls, properly seal the damaged windows) to no apparent effect.
>
> Some members of our Commission have suggested writing to the various 
> members of their Board of Trustees; others have suggested 
> informational pickets; and one has suggested the development of a 
> 'demolition by neglect' bylaw.
>
> (I should mention that the school successfully restored an adjacent 
> property - the William Chenery House, also an historic building, and 
> has rented it out.  We congratulated the school for their adaptive 
> reuse in this case)
>
> I wonder if there have been successful demo by neglect bylaws or 
> statutes -- a concern that has been raised is dealing with property 
> owners who neglect their property due to financial hardship (the 
> school in question here does plead hardship, although it is  not 
> apparent from their buildings and grounds).
>
> Any examples or case studies (pro or con) would be greatly appreciated.
>
> Daniel Bibel
> Co-chair
> Medfield Historical Commission
>
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