[MassHistPres] additions

[Deanna Ruffer]

Folks I'm curious how additions are handled under demolition delay
bylaws in other communities.  Further if a demolition delay bylaw does
provide specific jurisdiction over additions does it give the Historical
Commission jurisdiction over the proposed design of the addition.  If
not, how is the jurisdiction restricted. 

 

In Chatham, additions are exempted in the definition of demolition.
However, in the past applications for building permits for additions to
structures more than 75 years old or in the historic district have been
referred to the  Historical Commission for approval prior to issuance of
the building permit on the basis that such additions involve the removal
of exterior walls or roofs and thus the potential removal of historical
material. 

 

This is now being questioned by some of the local builders and attorneys
who are taking the position that additions are exempt from such review.
As a result, the Historical Commission, with the support and assistance
of the Community Development Department and a local attorney, was
proposing an amendment to the bylaw for the purpose of clarifying that
additions are subject to CHC jurisdiction.  Of concern to the Board of
Selectmen is if a proposed amendment was clarifying or expanding the
scope of the demolition delay bylaw and whether the intended
clarification was actually endowing the CHC with design revie authority
over additions.  

 

So, we are back to the drawing board.  We welcome your thoughts and
examples of adopted language specific to additions.  

 

Deanna L. Ruffer

Community Development Director

Town of Chatham

Community Development Department

Town Annex

261 George Ryder Road

Chatham, MA 02633

(508) 945-5168 x475

(774) 212-1554 (cell)

druffer at chatham-ma.gov

 

Kindly remember that the Secretary of State has deemed most email a
public record.

 

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