2011-11-17-HC-min - Laserfiche WebLink

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2. Photographs and accompanying letter from Ralph D. Kilfoyle, AIA, RDK Architects to Historical Commission dated 10/14/11. Mr. Stratford apologized for Mr. Berglund who was unable to attend and presented the Commission with documents 1 and 2. He mentioned the mold growing in the house. The abutters were invited to comment. Mr. Dooley stated that he agreed that the house should be demolished. Mr and Mrs. Huber agreed that it should be demolished. Ms. Fenollosa commented that a picture of the house, while not individually listed in the inventory, is shown as being an early example of the kinds of homes constructed in the liberty heights section of Lexington and is part of the inventory by virtue of its being part of an architecturally cohesive area designated as such on an MHC area form. Ms. Zimmerman asked how long the house has been vacant. Mr. Stratford replied about one year. Mr. Kalsow expressed his concern that lack of care was becoming a justification for allowing demolitions. He also mentioned that the RDK report was vague and doesn't mention the qualifications of this architect to assess the historical or cultural significance of 26 Butler Ave. Ms. Zimmerman added that 26 Butler is an example of affordable housing and that its value as such depends more on structural integrity rather than historical significance. The RDK report would have better served the applicant by addressing structural flaws rather than trying to convince the Commission of its doubtful historical significance. Mr. Kern asked how long the applicant has tried to sell the house. Mr. Stratford replied about one and a half months. The only offer has come from a builder [Mr. Berglund]. Mr. Kelland expressed his view that this house has low income housing potential and it is a concern. Mr. Kalsow summarized briefly for Mr. Stratford what the applicant needs to demonstrate before the Commission will recommend to the Building Commissioner that any house could be demolished. A motion was made and seconded to find the house at 26 Butler Ave. preferably preserved. The motion passed with all in favor. Mr. Kelland stated that the applicant does not have to wait a year to come before the commission to present extenuating circumstances as to why the house should be allowed to be demolished. 3 Gerard Terrace — Present: Mr. Thomas Alspah (applicant), no abutters present. Mr. Alspah stated that he prefers 3 Gerard Terrace not be a tear down. He's been actively trying to sell the property for two and a half years by himself. The house is not well designed for a family and that he has spent about $50,000 in improvements and maintenance for the premises over the last several years. (chimney rebuild, new high efficiency boiler, roof replacement). He added that the roof still leaks