Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Historic Preservation topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Historical commission warns recent demolitions show need for stronger preservation measures
Summary
A Historical Commission member told the Orleans select board that recent demolitions of 19th‑century buildings expose gaps in the town’s preservation tools and urged leaders to pursue regulations and plan language that protect historic structures while pursuing affordable housing.
Thaddeus Herrick, a member of the Orleans Historical Commission, told the select board that Orleans is in a “state of crisis” for historic preservation after the recent demolition of 20 South Orleans Road, a home built in 1872, and the threatened loss of an 1861 Greek revival building next door.
“Owners can and do neglect their homes and buildings such that they can argue in favor of demolition,” Herrick said, describing cases where he said intentional neglect led to demolition. He urged the board to adopt stronger town measures rather than rely on the commission’s limited power to delay demolition for 12 months.
Herrick urged officials not to treat historic preservation and attainable housing as a binary choice. “We can and should have both,” he said, arguing that preserved landmarks contribute to tourism, property values and downtown revitalization while saving material from landfills.
Board members did not take immediate action on new preservation regulations at the meeting. Herrick recommended that the town consider revising the comprehensive plan language and pursue additional legal tools to give the Historical Commission and town leaders more effective remedies when a property owner seeks demolition.
Next steps: Herrick asked staff and elected officials to explore regulatory options and strengthen outreach and political support for preservation. The board did not announce a timeline for follow‑up at the session’s close.
