Attendees: Joyce Anderson, Sheila Dubman, Alex Fiandaca and Alan Sentkowski
Town Common Guidelines
Alan shared his thoughts regarding guidelines for the town common: standards for the common should be established by a selectmen-appointed Town Common Planning Commission. The Commission cannot consist solely of just historical interests, but should include abutters and other interested people as well the Town Administrator, John Lebeaux. The idea for the new Commission will need to be accepted at town meeting. Alan indicated that he would present the idea to the select board.
Liberty Elm Project - bench
There was much discussion about how the Liberty Elm project unfolded over the past several months, including the effort to evaluate various sites, the Selectmen's involvement (Alan informed us that the original proposal called for three benches) and the Historical Commission's involvement. There was disagreement among members over the Commission's level of responsibility in the project at this stage, but all present feel that our involvement was justified.
A brief summary of developments since the Commission's letter to the selectmen expressing displeasure with the bench and the lack of contact from Griffin regarding the bench (drafted at the Commission's August 6th meeting) appears below:
The Commission is now aware that Griffin approached each selectman for approval prior to installing the bench. Alan indicated that when he gave his consent, he strongly suggested that Griffin contact Joyce and the Historical Commission before proceeding.
It is now clear that a bench is a requirement of the Elm project and cannot be eliminated.
The Selectmen are open to a replacement bench.
The Fitzgerald's are willing to accept a replacement bench after the Elm dedication on Sept. 6th.
The replacement bench (from Brookline, NH) is available for $415 (bench cost: $200; removal of the existing bench and installation of the new bench: $215)
Town funds may not be used toward a replacement bench.
Individuals have offered to make donations toward a replacement bench.
Members discussed the option of taking no further action regarding the existing bench. It was also noted that the new Town Common Planning Commission may choose to remove the bench if the style is deemed inappropriate.
Members then discussed the possibility of having a replacement bench in place for upcoming 250th related events on the common (historical society tour October 3rd and historical commission dedication October 17th). Joyce indicated that the bench could be delivered within a week. The 250th committee was suggested as a possible source of funding for the new bench. The administrative aspects of this approach were discussed in terms of paying for the bench upfront (borrowing from town vs. personal check) while awaiting 250th committee approval for funding. Alan suggested talking with John L. about the best approach.
Rock for National Register District plaque
Complaints about the size and location of the Commission's rock on the common were presented by both Joyce and Alan. Members visited the proposed new location with Alan near the edge of the wall beneath the library parking lot. Members agreed that the stone wall would provide a nice background for the rock and would allow it to appear less obtrusive. Joyce will inquire about a public review meeting for the new location. Alan excused himself from the meeting and members returned to the annex.
Dedication of Princeton Center National Register District
Members discussed the logistics of having the Princeton Center dedication at two locations as planned (Meetinghouse Hill and the town center). Concerns were raised about people who are unable to walk from one location to the other. Having multiple cars parked at Meetinghouse cemetery is also a concern. Members agreed to limit the ceremony to the town center. Joyce will arrange for an enlarged photo of the Meetinghouse Hill plaque to be presented at the ceremony. Members also discussed the possibility of offering to walk people to Meetinghouse Hill afterwards.
Lew Evangelidis has offered to speak. Judy Breen has offered the downstairs of the Congregational Church for refreshments. Members will plan to bring cookies, etc.
The dedication event is on the same day as the 250th Grand Finale party, though the time of that event is not yet clear. Alex will contact the 250th committee to confirm the dedication for October 17th from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM and to inquire about having signs created for the 250th sign boards to advertise the event.
Flyers/invitations will be sent to residents in the town center district. Joyce will create a list and Sheila will make labels on Excell. List will also include selectmen, John Lebeaux, Lew Evangelidis, Susan Ceccacci, Phil Bergen. Joyce will draft the invitation and may include a historical society photo of the library and town hall.
Members decided against creating an informational pamphlet like the one created for Russell Corner.
Demolition Delay Bylaw
Members briefly the discussed the demolition delay bylaw. The bylaw was first discussed last year when the school house on the corner of Ball Hill Road and Schoolhouse Lane was demolished. After meeting with the Selectmen in January of this year, the Commission decided to put the bylaw on hold so that members could better educate themselves before presenting the idea to voters. The bylaw has resurfaced in light of another Ball Hill Road school house in jeopardy of demolition.
Members discussed the similarities of these the two properties: both tiny structures on non-conforming lots. The options for expanding these houses into comfortable living space are severely limited under current zoning bylaws. The recently demolished schoolhouse had faced Conservation Commission restrictions in addition to zoning restrictions. A demolition delay would serve little purpose in these instances, other than to further penalize home owners of nonviable properties. Members agreed that the Historical Commission should meet with both the Planning Board and the Conservation Commission to see if there is any way to prevent further loss of these unique historic structures.
Respectfully submitted,
Alex Fiandaca
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