[MassHistPres] What is the definiton of 'demolition'?

[Dennis Sears]

FYI, my not always accurate memory says the model template for a demolition
delay bylaw from MHC includes a definition of "demolition".  You can get a
copy of the template from Chris Skelly at MHC or also, I think, at the MHC
website.

 

That being said, we have such a definition in our draft demolition delay
bylaw that we're taking forward to the May Town Meeting.  The definition is:
"Any act of substantially pulling down, destroying, removing or razing a
structure, or any portion thereof, or commencing the work of destruction
with the intent of completing the same.  "Demolition" as used herein also
shall be deemed to include demolition by neglect or arson."

 

Dennis Sears

Chair, Sheffield Historical Commission

 

From: masshistpres-bounces at cs.umb.edu
[mailto:masshistpres-bounces at cs.umb.edu] On Behalf Of dbibel at verizon.net
Sent: Tuesday, February 11, 2014 1:31 PM
To: masshistpres at cs.umb.edu
Subject: [MassHistPres] What is the definiton of 'demolition'?

 

We have a situation in Medfield that is causing the Historical Commission
some heartache.  An applicant came before us with a demolition application
for a small ell in the rear of an iconic and historic building.  We approved
the application after some discussion and give and take.

Now we have a situation where the owner has, in addition to taking down the
ell, has basically stripped the exterior of the building down to the
sheeting.  He has also gutted the interior, due to structural problems, but
we have no oversight or control over that.

In discussions with the owner, he states that he will restore the exterior
to its original appearance (although he now states that he will use Hardie
Board rather than cedar).

The question we have is -- does this stripping of the exterior meet a
definition of 'demolition'?  The town's legal counsel says it does not.

I would be interested in hearing from all of you.

Dan Bibel. co-chair
Medfield Historical Commission 

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