[MassHistPres] Historical Markers For Houses

[RafaelRobertDelfin]

Hello everyone,

I launched a Historical Marker Program in my town, Dighton last year and I
and other members of the Dighton Historical Commission have just approved
the application of a resident whose house is over 100 years old and has a
lot of historical significance.

Initially, the Commission had voted to pay for the manufacture of the
historical marker by using funds that the Town of Dighton had granted to
the Commission. The average cost of a historical marker is $125. However,
when the Town Administrator learned about this, she suggested that paying
for the marker would be a conflict of interest (ergo, "unethical" and
possibly "illegal'), and that the recipient should pay for the marker
himself/herself. I have always thought that the Commission is acting on its
own jurisdiction and that we have the right to use the funds as we see fit
as long as it assists in the preservation of local history.

I am addressing my questions to members of town historical commissions who
grant historical markers to residents: "Do the recipients have to pay for
the marker, or does your commission pay for it?" And would you
agree/disagree with the Dighton Town Administrator's statement? I guess I
am looking for a legitimate recourse to bring to the table when the Town
Administrator attends our next meeting on April 10.

Your advice would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you.

Sincerely,
-- 
Rafa Delfin, Vice-Chair
Dighton Historical Commission
774-766-2928
rafadello at gmail.com
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