Cambridge preservation committee reviews ordinance, explores saving South Street water tower

The Village of Cambridge Historic Preservation Committee reviewed its Historic Preservation Ordinance and discussed preliminary plans to preserve the South Street water tower during a meeting on Sept. 24 at the Amundson Community Center.

Mark McNally, chair of the committee, said he would like to see the South Street water tower saved and reported hairline cracks along the tower’s foundation and structure. McNally told the committee he has spoken with people who may help with repairs and painting and identified “a group that would donate 50%” of the costs and create a commemorative plaque listing donors, according to the committee minutes.

Committee members discussed next steps for vetting the proposal. Dean Lund asked whether a structural study had already been completed; the minutes record that no study was identified during the meeting. Jenni Landowski said she would investigate what was done to preserve the Fort Atkinson water tower as an example the committee could consult. Jay Weiss requested staff or members produce a cost comparison of demolition versus preservation before any commitment of funds.

The committee also reviewed the Historic Preservation Ordinance, which was included in the meeting packet for members’ consideration. Members listed broader goals for the committee that include establishing a historic district, identifying or creating public spaces and prioritizing the WaterTower as a candidate for preservation work; no formal action on ordinance changes or project funding occurred at the Sept. 24 meeting.

The committee set its next meeting for Tuesday, Oct. 22, 2024, at 5:45 p.m. Dean Lund made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Jenni Landowski; the motion carried and Chair Mark McNally adjourned the meeting at 6:19 p.m.