2011-09-15-HC-min - Laserfiche WebLink

Browse Search

Meeting Minutes Lexington Historical Commission September 15, 2011 Commission Members Present: David Kelland, Chair, Frank Kern, Marilyn Fenollosa, Sally Zimmerman Absent: Wendall Kalsow The meeting was called to order at 7:52 p.m., Selectmen's Meeting Room, Town Office Building Formal Hearings: 116 Vine St., Leary Property (Rescheduled from 7/21/11) The Town of Lexington was represented by selectman Hank Manz. Mr. Manz read into the record a prepared letter dated September 15, 2011 addressed to the Lexington Historical Commission (attached) outlining the town's intentions regarding 116 Vine St. The following abutters and /or interested parties were present and spoke against a demolition of the house. Harold Hemond, 104 Vine St., stated his belief that the Salemi report is biased in favor of demolition. Sited example of the reports statement that 200 ampere service is required. Petar Litchev, 121 Vine St. stated that an affordable housing plan that includes retention of the house could be well integrated into the neighborhood. Lawrence McCray, 125 Vine St. asked the Commission about the procedure in this matter. Chairperson Kelland responded that under the bylaw movement of the house to another location constitutes demolition. Robert Pressman, 22 Locust Ave. In reponse to Mr. Manz's prepared letter, item 6, Mr. Pressman stated that affordable housing is one of the things that "strengthen the town" and that Lexington has a positive record with regard to it. The record is not "appalling ". Mr. Hemond added that preservation of historic properties is also one of the things that strengthen the town. Commissioner Comments: Sally Zimmerman —the standards for high quality affordable housing are attainable with the house currently situated on the property. There are other options besides demolition and that all possibilities have not been examined by the town. Marilyn Fenollosa - The Salemi Report says that the house can be preserved. An affordable housing developer who has walked the site has reported that it (affordable housing) is feasible.