1935-12-06 - Laserfiche WebLink

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• MEMO REPORT Friday, December 6, 1935 At 7:30 P. M. Mr. Duffy and Mr. Kimball met Mr. Robert Merriam for an informal discussion concerning treatment of the Merriam Factory property on Oakland Street, Mr. Merriam stated that the present tenant was vacating and that he would have a non -producing property on his hands by the new year. There is no opportunity for manufacturing in Lexington as labor cannot be obtained. He has considered putting shutters over the windows, in- stalling the necessary protective devices and 'doing the building as a storeage warehouse. Carrying charges were prohibitive to this plan. With a feeling that a demand existed for moderately priced apartments of 4 or 4 rooms, Mr. Merriam advances the idea of utilizing the present structure for such a purpose. Tentative plans and costs have been prepared, based on current prices,and favorable modification of existing town by-laws (Building & Zon- ing) which indicate that remodeling might, in the long run, prove profitable. Removing the present buildings and replacing with an en- tirely new plant would require too heavy an investment. `j'he salvage value of the present structure is probably about suffi- cient to clear the ground at no expense and leave the real estate, a parcel approximately 114 feet deep with a 325 ft. frontage, to be disposed of. The proposed plans provide for raising the entire floor level to permit basement rooms or garage, the roof to remain as at present, with separating walls of fire resisting material filled with mural wool, extending to the ceilings, the latter being covered with this same material. This leaves an unob- structed blind attic the entire length of the building. There will be some 12 apartments;, each a complete unit with a floor space of approximately 15 x 30 and separate outside entrances. The office building will be used for two apartments. Rentals will run from 45.00 to $55.00 per month. It is realized that the proposed plans are in conflict with the existing building laws although Mr. Merriam felt they were of a nature which could fall under Board of appeal ruling and not require Town action. He was to talk with the Town Counsel on this question. The neighbors have been approached informally and no opposition has developed. Mr. Duffy reviewed previous projects of a similar nature and expressed the opinion that,in fairness to all concerned, the Board should have rather definite assurances that finances are Merriam Factory