Kingston Historical Commission approves minutes and rules 127 Wapping Road not historically significant

The Kingston Historical Commission unanimously approved its Feb. 11, 2026 minutes and later voted that the property at 127 Wapping Road does not meet the commission’s criteria for historic significance, a determination the commission said allows the owner to proceed with plans that include demolition and a new ranch-style house.

The meeting opened at 6:32 p.m. and commissioners recorded six members present. Tom Vendetti moved to accept the prior minutes as amended; Ken Brack seconded and the motion passed unanimously. Later in the agenda the commission heard from owner Dave Gasse and contractor Kevin McDonough about the condition of the house at 127 Wapping Road. The structure, described by members as dating to the late 18th or early 19th century on roughly a 22-acre lot, was reported to be vacant for about 10 years and to have extensive rot, water damage and no electricity. John Bartlett said he had been inside about a decade ago and did not believe the house could be preserved.

After discussion, Bartlett moved that the building does not meet the criteria for historic significance; Tom Vendetti seconded. The motion passed unanimously. The commission’s minutes state no elements were identified that would warrant designation as a historically significant building or structure. The minutes also note there has been no formal condemnation and that utilities had been shut off previously.

The commission set its next meeting for May 13 at 6:30 p.m. in Room 203 and adjourned at 8:07 p.m., following a unanimous motion to end the meeting.