Commission to add state plaque for Memorial United Methodist Church; members to research National Register eligibility

Garrett updated the Unionville Historic District and Properties Commission that Memorial United Methodist Church, built in 1926 on West Avon Road, will receive a state register plaque in time for its 100th anniversary.

"They're having their hundred year celebration next year," Garrett said, noting the commission procured a state plaque and that the church is considering an additional year plaque. Garrett said the town will handle the COA application process when the church moves forward with the year plaque.

Commissioners discussed whether the church — and other local properties such as the Unionville Museum and the Masonic Lodge — are on the National Register. They noted that the town previously added properties to the state register when the local historic district was established in 2009 and that National Register listing typically requires a separate nomination process and can affect requirements for future work on buildings.

An unidentified commission member cautioned that National Register listing can increase the complexity and cost of updates because work may need to follow historical-material standards; that same member offered to lead a National Register nomination if the commission and staff determine it is appropriate. Garrett said he will research municipal ownership implications, possible funding opportunities and any restrictions that would follow a national designation and will report back to the commission.

No formal vote was taken. The commission asked staff to gather documentation about current register status and to return with recommendations on whether to pursue a National Register nomination and what steps would be required.