HomeMy WebLinkAbout2011-08-18-HC-minMeeting Minutes
Lexington Historical Commission
August 18, 2011
Commission Members Present: David Kelland, Chair, Wendall Kalsow, Frank Kern
Absent: Marilyn Fenollosa, Sally Zimmerman
The meeting was called to order at 7:45 p.m., Ellen Stone Room, Cary Hall.
Formal Hearings:
40 -42 Woburn St . (continuation)
The applicant along with Brian Lau (architect) presented architectural drawings as preferred by the
applicant of a proposed addition to the building in order to clarify the distinction between the existing
structure and proposed addition that was lacking at the 7/21/11 meeting. This was needed in order to
assess the full extent of the demolition to the existing structure. The applicant was asked by the
commission whether an alternative was considered that would further minimize the roof demolition of
the existing structure. An alternative set of drawings was shown to the commission members but the
applicant noted that this alternative was not preferred.
There were no abutters present.
A motion was made and seconded to allow the partial demolition of the structure as presented in the
proposed architectural drawings as preferred by the applicant and dated August 2011 with the
stipulation that the front wall (Woburn street side) of the addition would be no less than 40' from the
front wall of the existing structure. The vote was 3 -0 in favor.
Documents received: architectural drawings dated August 2011 and marked by the commission to show
the setback minimum.
20 Fletcher Ave.
The applicant, William Littlewood, stated that a renovation of the existing structure is not economically
feasible and that there have been many interior and exterior alterations such as vinyl siding and a
complete replacement of windows. The applicant asked the commission to allow the demolition since
there is not much historic or architectural detail worth saving. The applicant expressed his desire to
incorporate architectural details into a replacement structure still remaining in the existing building.
Abutter's comments:
Scott Gilbert, 21 Fletcher — Most of the homes on Fletcher Ave. have undergone modifications and that
the scale and style is what is most important to preserve in a replacement for 20 Fletcher.
William Novick, 16 Fletcher — Agreed with the comments made by Gilbert and reiterated the significance
of keeping the look of the neighborhood.
The commission asked the applicant if he had anything that would demonstrate a good faith effort to
find a buyer that would preserve the structure or any reports such as would be prepared by a structural
engineer or designer that would corroborate a claim that it is not likely that anyone would buy the
house with the intention of restoring it. The applicant did not present any documentation or proof.
A motion was made and seconded to find the building at 20 Fletcher Ave. preferably preserved. The
vote was 3 -0 in favor. The commission reminded the applicant that he does not have to wait a year to
present new information and encouraged the applicant to do so at any of its subsequent monthly
meetings.
Other Business:
16 Adams St. — preferably preserved at May 19, 2011 meeting.
Lee Noel Chase acting as architect and the owners Yadhav Jayaraman and Devasena Balasubramaniam
presented photographs of mold growing in the house. Plans were also submitted (attached) that
proposed lifting of the house and demolition and replacement of the granite foundation. The final
elevation of the house would be one foot taller than current height. They also said the cellar would be
dug one foot deeper to accommodate more headroom for a finished basement. Exterior foundation
brick would be restored.
The commission encouraged the architect /owners to consult with the town building commissioner as to
whether the replacement of the foundation constitutes a demolition. The commission indicated that it
would have no objection to their proceeding with foundation replacement and expressed its approval of
this approach as an alternative to demolition after the one -year delay ends.
4 Turning Mill —
Carol Bogin came to ask the HC for advice. She has tried to sell her Techbuilt house with no success.
She is currently living at the Muzzey condominium complex. The price, according to Ms. Bogin is
currently 25% below the assessed value. The Commission advised her to complete a demolition
application. She was also encouraged to contact the Boston Society of Architects and DOCOMOMO, the
International Working Party for the Documentation and Conservation of Building Sites and
Neighborhoods of the Modern Movement, for advice on marketing the property.
A motion was made and seconded to adjourn at 9:00 p.m. with all in favor.