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Berlin historic commission approves fence and driveway at 413 South Main; demolition deferred pending Maryland Historic Trust review
Summary
The Berlin Historic District Commission approved a backyard fence and bluestone driveway at 413 South Main but tabled approval to disassemble or demolish the house until written clearance is received from the Maryland Historic Trust, after the applicant submitted structural-engineer notes about foundation failure.
The Berlin Historic District Commission on July 26 approved an application to install a wooden backyard fence and to surface a driveway at 413 South Main, but delayed any decision on removing a deteriorated historic structure until the Maryland Historic Trust reviews the building.
Applicant Matthew Amy told the commission he plans to salvage historic elements and then, if necessary, remove the structure. He cited a structural-engineer letter that found the foundation swelling, no continuous footer and a risk that lifting the house to renovate could collapse it. "The sooner that I can get in there and have your permission to start salvaging what I can," Amy said, "the sooner I can move forward." He also reported the roof collapse occurred between his offer and closing and estimated the house might be fully lost in 12 to 18 months if no action is taken.
Commissioners acknowledged the property's listing with a state historic survey dating to 1969 and said that, because the dwelling is registered with the Maryland Historic Trust, the commission lacks unilateral authority to approve demolition. The board adopted a motion that: approves the fence as presented; approves bluestone (or clamshells) for the driveway as presented; and tables the applicant's request to disassemble/save and eventually demolish the structure until the Maryland Historic Trust issues written permission to proceed. The motion also said that if the Trust provides written clearance, Amy may proceed without returning to the commission.
Chair (unnamed) summarized the vote before commissioners voiced "aye"; the motion passed. Commissioner (S3) made the record noting the items approved and the condition to await the Trust's written approval; Commissioner (S5) seconded the motion.
Next steps: Amy said he will call the Maryland Historic Trust the morning following the meeting and will provide the commission any written confirmation they receive. The board asked staff to accept emailed evidence of the Trust's clearance and to record the approval so the applicant would not need to reappear if the Trust authorizes demolition in writing.
