[MassHistPres] Historical / District Commission member group

[Chris Skelly]

I think this could be a great idea.  There are some other states with local commission associations.  So, taking a look at how they work would be important.  I’ll be interested to hear what others have to say about what they think an association could accomplish and what is most needed.  

 

In regularly talking to commissions around the state, I often recognize that they need a collective stronger voice.  With several thousand members making up commissions around the state, they really could be a strong voice together.  

 

Certainly, a statewide conference is needed.  I just checked the Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commissions website and noted that nearly 800 people attended their annual conference in 2011!  Wow.  I think a statewide preservation conference that would appeal to local commission members and homeowners is the way to go.  Could be a great learning environment for everyone.  

 

Chris.

 

Christopher C. Skelly

Director of Local Government Programs

Massachusetts Historical Commission

 

From: masshistpres-bounces at cs.umb.edu [mailto:masshistpres-bounces at cs.umb.edu] On Behalf Of Blever3043
Sent: Thursday, May 12, 2011 11:28 AM
To: masshistpres at cs.umb.edu
Subject: [MassHistPres] Historical / District Commission member group

 

Hi All, 

I’m wondering if there is interest in forming an association of local historic preservation commissions.  Lots of other boards, committees and commissions such as conservation commissions, zoning boards of appeal, planning boards, health boards, school committees and so on have organized themselves into statewide associations.   As statewide non-profit organizations, they have a strong voice, educate their members on various topics, hold annual conferences and advocate for their cause.  This listserve is a great forum for discussion, but local commissions need a stronger collective voice.  Its been a while since the last state-wide conference and I think it would be good to have a venue that those of us in preservation can get together and learn from each other.  Even a one day conference like VAF or New England Archaeology has would be good.  With all of the Local Historical Commissions and Historic District Commissions around the state, a Massachusetts Association of Historic Preservation Commissions could help our cause and organize us.  What do you think?  Is this a good idea?  If so, what should be some next steps.


Brian Lever  

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