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Board tables decision after single bid to move historic house at 559 Main Street
Summary
At a special meeting, the board reviewed a lone bid to move a historic house at 559 Main Street and compared moving, renovation and demolition costs. Because demolition is barred by a historic-district agreement, the board deferred a vote to gather more information and community input.
The board opened a special meeting to consider action on a tabled item regarding a structure at 559 Main Street and reviewed the lone bid submitted to move the house.
The Chair said the bid process produced only one bidder after the district advertised on its website and in the Long Island Advance. "In accordance with the bid requirements, we had 45 days to respond to the bid for a moving house," the Chair said, adding that "the proposed bid price is a $100. The cost to move the structure is 79,300, so the district would pay 79,200 for its removal." The Chair directed the public to a presentation and the Board Docs for the 07/01/2024 meeting posted on the district website for supporting materials.
The board reviewed alternatives considered before tonight's meeting. "We have explored options to renovate and keep the house for student use as vocational school or something else," the Chair said, estimating renovation would cost about $710,000. The Chair also said demolition was estimated at roughly $125,000 but is no longer an option because the house sits in a historic district and "the historic district advisory committee opposed such demolition," and an agreement with the town requires the structure remain within town limits.
A committee member who spoke described the building as an "old schoolhouse" that had been converted and asked for more time to study the matter. "For me to get some insight before I obviously jump to a conclusion ... I appreciate just that time and tabling in for a meeting so I can get some insight before I'm a part of the process," the committee member said.
No formal motion or vote on the item was recorded in the transcript. The Chair announced the board will enter executive session and will not take any actions afterward except to adjourn. The Chair also noted the next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 27, 2024, at 6 p.m. in the boardroom at 529 Main Street.
The board said it will continue community outreach and consider feedback before scheduling any final action on the property.
