SOUTH BERWICK TOWN COUNCIL
PUBLIC HEARING
HISTORIC DISTRICT ORDINANCE
AUGUST 24, 2009
Chairman Jean Demetracopoulos opened the hearing at 6:30pm. Councilors present included Michelle Kareckas, David Burke, and Gerald W. MacPherson, Sr. Town Manager John B. Schempf was also in attendance.
The purpose of the hearing was to receive public comment on the proposed amendments to the Historic District Ordinance. Sections of the ordinance to be changed are 84-1C, 84-3B, 84-3C, 84-4B, 84-8A3 & 4, 84-8B & 8C, 84-10A, 84-11A, 84-11B7 &B9. The significant changes include the decrease in commission members from 7 to 5 and adding the BR Zone to the appropriate sections.
Richard Clough, Academy St, questioned the definition of archeological sites. Dan Boyle, Chair of the Historic District Commission, stated that the Commission planned on deferring to the Maine Historic Preservation Council’s definition. Mr. Clough also questioned if the change to section 84-11B7, Details, would affect other properties. It was explained that these changes only affect the properties already included in the designated historic district zones.
Ruth Boston, Emery’s Bridge Rd, asked how the turntable off of Route 236 got added. It was explained that the state was going to use the stone/masonry for construction and Aimee Schramm was instrumental in saving the site.
Eric Pelchat, Front St, asked if the ordinance would apply to any Town owned properties. Mrs. Demetracopoulos said “Yes”.
Wendy Pirsig, Wadleigh Ln, commended the Council and the HDC for their review and upgrade of the ordinance. She also added that a reference should be made to state recognized archeological sites.
Audrey Fortier, Rodier Rd, asked if the St. Michael’s property was part of the district. No.
The hearing was closed at 6:44pm.
Attest:
Barbara Bennett, CCM
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