2011-12-15-HC-min - Laserfiche WebLink

Browse Search

Lexington Historical Commission Meeting minutes December 15, 2011 Members present: Marilyn Fenollosa, acting chair; Wendall Kalsow; Sally Zimmerman The meeting was called to order at 7:45 p.m. 1. Reconsideration of Demolition Application on 26 Butler Avenue John Farrington, Esq., made a presentation on behalf of Bergland Associates, the potential buyer in this matter. He acknowledged that the information concerning the structure previously submitted to the Commission described primarily cosmetic defects that could be readily corrected. In support of his application for reconsideration, he presented a report by Sami E. Kassis, P.E., dated December 14, 2011, describing the structural condition of the house. Mr. Farrington especially pointed out that because of foundation problems, the rear portion of the house had separated from the main block; in other places, stones have separated and collapsed. He also noted that the main carrying floor beam is sagging and cracked; one of the posts supporting this beam has fallen to the ground causing additional settling of the floors above. Finally, he pointed out evidence of termite damage. Mr. Farrington then presented two letters from realtors attempting to market the house: from Barbra Weisman, Barrett & Company, describing the deteriorated condition of the home and her belief that as a result no lending institution would loan money to a buyer of the property; and from Stephen Stratford, of Hammond Residential Real Estate, similarly detailing the extensive work that would be required to rehabilitate the property. The Commission also received testimony from Jackie Holmes, the daughter of the deceased owner, representing the estate; and Jack Dooley, an abutter. Both were in favor of the demolition. Based on this evidence, Mr. Kalsow moved to permit the demolition based on the structural report detailing the poor condition of the house, and the letters from the realtors describing the compromised marketability of the home. Ms. Zimmerman seconded the motion, and the vote was unanimous in favor of permitting the demolition. Because Mr. Farrington did not have the demolition permission form with him, it was requested that he leave it in the Commission’s inbox in the Building Department for signature. 2. Preliminary Discussion of Time Limits on Commission Decisions Ms. Fenollosa described conversations she had had with David Kelland concerning the continued effectiveness of Commission approvals after significant periods of time had elapsed. Mr. Kelland had spoken with Kevin Batt, Esq., town counsel, who informed him that the Commission could set expiration dates after which permissions that were granted but not acted 1