Town of Middleborough utility staff told the board that a roughly 50-foot brick chimney at the gas division facility on Vine Street is cracking and beginning to lean, prompting safety concerns and steps to quantify costs for repair or demolition.

Staff presented photographs showing corner cracking and said an initial demolition quote is about $45,000. They said they will seek a separate estimate for repairing and restoring the chimney; staff expected repair would cost more than demolition but wants a formal cost comparison before deciding. The utility’s building official, Lincoln Andrews, inspected the chimney and recommended removal for safety if deterioration continues, although staff said it did not appear to be an immediate emergency.

Board members and staff discussed historical and environmental considerations. Staff noted the property is not listed in the local historical registry but said the site may be a “21E” brownfield because of prior coal gasification activity; the designation could affect future reuse. Members suggested the historical commission will likely ask about preservation if a demolition permit is filed; staff said any reclaimed brick material could offset demolition costs and might be reused for a commemorative display if desired.

Staff said they will obtain a detailed repair estimate and expected to return with a recommendation at the next board meeting. No demolition vote took place at this meeting.