[MassHistPres] Use of cpc funds questioned for National Register nomination papers preparation

[Sara Wermiel]

Apart from the question of the use of CPA funds for a NR nomination, the planning board rep has a point. If the goal is protecting an important historic area that is under pressure, listing in the NR provides protection only from federal and state action. So if the threat to this area is, for example, road widening paid for with state or federal funds, then NR listing would help – the project would trigger a review. 

But if the problem is pressure for redevelopment from private property owners, then other means would be stronger. These include establishing a planning overlay district or neighborhood conservation district, or, of course, a historic district. Would the planning board member be willing to work on something that would protect the area? Could CPA money be used to fund a study of how best to protect and preserve the area?

 

Sara Wermiel

Historian of technology/historic preservation consultant

Jamaica Plain, MA

 

 

 

From: masshistpres-bounces at cs.umb.edu [mailto:masshistpres-bounces at cs.umb.edu] On Behalf Of sally urbano
Sent: Monday, December 12, 2016 9:24 AM
To: James J O'Rourke Jr <jamesjorourkejr321 at gmail.com>; masshistpres <masshistpres at cs.umb.edu>
Subject: Re: [MassHistPres] Use of cpc funds questioned for National Register nomination papers preparation

 

Hi James,

      I made the original post. Our Historic Commission appeared before the CPC asking for funds to hire a consultant to submit the application to National Register.  The area we are seeking includes 32+ historic homes along one stretch of Main St.

The person who raised the question is the planning board rep  to CPC. His objection is that the submission of the documents does not actually acquire or preserve anything , citing the guidelines of CPA.  I am trying to overcome these things and am compiling an additional packet of information.

we provided a sample of the Sandwich Springhill submission, quotations from the National parks service, and citations showing benefits of the N.R. district which brings in some tools for actual preservation.  I am still seeking any information that could prove beneficial.

Thank you all for your time and assistance. We think it is an incredible stretch to be preserved and encroachments make it a time sensitive project.

 

Best regards

Sally Urbano

West Harwich

 

 

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