[MassHistPres] Historical Markers For Houses

[Robert Busch]

Hi Rafael

In Bolton we have two National Register Historic Districts and we have 
coordinated purchase of cast bronze plaques for homeowners in one 
district and are just beginning the process in the second (newer) one. 
The cost (around $200) is paid by teach property owner. The Historical 
Commission provides no subsidy and makes no profit on the plaques.  The 
Commission purchased plaques for installation on Town-owned buildings in 
the district.

We made one exception for a very significant 1728 house that was 
redeveloped into affordable housing.  In this case the Commission paid 
for the plaque while the developer paid for a mounting board and 
installation of the plaque.

The principle we generally follow is that anything done on private 
property is the responsibility of the property owner.  We felt the one 
exception described above was appropriate given the Town's substantial 
interest and participation in the development of affordable housing, and 
the Commission's heavy involvement in the project.

That said, I don't see anything ethically problematic with the Town 
procuring plaques for property owners to install, though it could be 
cost-prohibitive. The plaques provide a clear benefit to to the Town by 
making its history more visible.

The problem that might be encountered is historic property owners asking 
for plaques at the Commission's expense and raising the issue of 
"fairness" if denied.  For this reason alone I'd advise against your 
Commission purchasing so as not to set a problematic precedent.

Regards,

Bob Busch

Co-Chairman Bolton Historical Commission


On 3/10/2020 9:14 PM, RafaelRobertDelfin wrote:
> 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 <mailto:rafadello at gmail.com>
>
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