HomeMy WebLinkAbout2015-12-14 Historical Commission Minutes
NORTH ANDOVER HISTORICAL COMMISSION Minutes from meeting held
December 14, 2015.
I. SUGGESTED CPC PRESERVATION PROJECT FOR STONE WALLS - Michael
Smolak outlined for the Commission the proposal he plans to bring to the CPC
requesting CPA fundng to be used for the restoration and preservation of the original
stone walls lining roads in the vicinity of Smolak Farm.
Michael explained that many of the original stone walls date back to the eighteenth
century. These freestanding walls were used by early farmers to delineate property lines
and roads. Throughout the years many of these original walls have been damaged by
weather, vehicles, and the natural degradation of time.
Michael described the communications he has had with the DPW about this proposed
project. Before submitting the request to the CPC he came to the Historical Commission
to ask for a letter of support.
A motion was made that the NAHC write a letter to the CPC supporting the use of CPA
funds to restore and preserve the freestanding stone walls in North
Andover. Commission members voted unanimously to support the project and to write
a letter to the CPC stating this support.
II. OLD BURYING GROUND -Kathy Szyska reported that the Fannins had worked twice
at the OBG since our last meeting. The Commission sent a letter to Ray Santilli
requesting that the date for the current contract be extended until June 30. 2016 this
request was granted.
There was a discussion about what needs to be done by Commission members to
complete the project. Ideas about a celebration were also discussed.
It was agreed that Commission members will research information about the following
areas for the next meeting:
3D Printer reproductions of gravestones for rubbing - A new gate for OBG - A
receptacle for brochures at OBG - Updating the OBG brochure - Ideas for a Celebration
of the completion of the project
Lyn Savage, North Andover Town Treasurer, stated recently that currently $19,000
remains in the CPA Grant for the original project, and $10,000 still remains from
the most recent RFP.
III. SOLAR PANELS - Kathy Szyska reported that the Old Center Historical District
Commission denied the request from the North Parish Church to use solar panels. The
denial was based on the "sidewalk sight" requiremwnt in the District's mission and also
specific wording in the District's charter. George Schruender, Chairman of the Old
Center District Commission, has notified members that the church plans to appeal the
negative vote against solar panels.
IV. NEW MEETING PLACE FOR NAHC - During the renovation of the Fire Station
Town Hall will be closed. The NAHC will meet at the Senior Center.
The next meeting of the NAHC will be Monday, January 12, 2016, at 7pm, at the Senior
Center.