HISTORIC DISTRICT/HERITAGE COMMISSION
MAY 9, 2002


Present: T. Furlong, C. Pynn, and P. Schena

  1. Review and approval April minutes

    T. Furlong made a motion to accept the April minutes. C. Pynn seconded the motion. The April minutes were accepted by unanimous vote.

  2. I 93 project and impact on historic properties

    C. Pynn reported on correspondences with L. Wilson of News Hampshire Department of Historic Resources and Alex Ray, owner of the Common Man restaurant concerning the impact of the widening of I93 on the historic assets that are currently situated on the Common Man site. A copy of L. Wilson's e-mail, regarding options for the Common Man site, was distributed and discussed. Particular note was made of her comments on the historic value of the buildings on the site and the possibilities of remediation. Based on L. Wilson's e-mail, the Commission agreed to request an information session with the NH Department of Transportation (DOT) to receive a formal update from the DOT, to relay specific information concerning the properties, and discuss possible options.

    P. Schena agreed to contact L. Wilson and then the DOT to request the information session.

    The Commission also agreed to contact Alex Ray of the Common Man to discuss options to protect the site at an up-coming HDC meeting.

    Further to this matter, the Commission discussed the need to create greater public awareness of the potential threat to local historic resource. The use of local media outlets was specifically discussed.

    In reflecting on the importance of protecting the Common Man site, C. Pynn reiterated the State of New Hampshire's focus on preserving historic barns and also suggested leveraging this initiative as practical.

  3. Update on the use of synthetic siding materials in historic districts

    As a follow-up to its last meeting, the Commission revisited the issue of the use of synthetic siding materials in historic districts. The Commission reviewed several options and agreed to contact the Planning Board to discuss the issue and these options in more detail.

    P. Schena agreed to contact the Planning Board to determine the best means to address this matter to the Board.

  4. Presentation and discussion of correspondences and/or other new issues

    C. Pynn reported that the HDC's remarks concerning the historic issues (former West Windham Depot site) related to the Kiddie Academy project were not read at the 17 April 2002 Planning Board meeting. She further noted that, after the Board was made aware of this oversight, it suggested that HDC apply for an official historic marker for the site. In addition, she noted that A. Turner agreed to speak to the applicant about providing a placard recognizing the former depot.

    Furthermore, C. Pynn made a motion that the HDC send a letter to the Planning Board expressing dismay that its comments regarding the West Windham Depot site were not read at the 17 April 2002 meeting and requesting an explanation form the Planning Board. T. Furlong seconded the motion. The motion was accepted by unanimous vote. P. Schena agreed to draft this correspondence.

    C. Pynn also recalled previous discussion of and agreement on the installation of a historic marker noting the site of the town's last remaining cistern in the Carr Hill Road area. She agreed to follow-up with the developer of this property to request the installation of the marker.

    Finally, C. Pynn raised for discussion the possible replacement of the bridge on the Castle Hill Road. C. Pynn and P. Schena agreed to visit the bridge, gather information, and request the Commission be included in any discussions that may impact development in and around the bridge.

  5. Review of plan/project submissions

    The Commission reviewed the Nassar Subdivision and Radial Properties projects and prepared remarks on each for submission to the Planning and Zoning Board.


There being to further business to come before the Commission, the Meeting was adjourned at 5:55 PM.

Respectfully Submitted,

Patrick J. Schena
Chairman, Historic District/Heritage Commission

Copyright © 2002 All Rights Reserved
06/18/2002