[MassHistPres] additions

[Chris Skelly]

Deanna, additions are not typically ever reviewed as part of a demolition
delay bylaw and this does not sound like a good avenue to pursue.  If you
are concerned about demolitions, additions and new construction in the
National Register District, Chatham should consider a MGL Chapter 40C Local
Historic District.  I'd be happy to discuss options with you further.  

 

Chris.

 

Christopher C. Skelly

Director of Local Government Programs

Massachusetts Historical Commission

220 Morrissey Boulevard, Boston, MA 02125

Christopher.Skelly at state.ma.us

 

From: masshistpres-bounces at cs.umb.edu
[mailto:masshistpres-bounces at cs.umb.edu] On Behalf Of Deanna Ruffer
Sent: Tuesday, February 11, 2014 9:56 PM
To: masshistpres at cs.umb.edu
Subject: [MassHistPres] additions

 

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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