By Sharon Challenger.
On Thursday evening September 3, 2020 a Public Hearing was held by the Haddam Planning & Zoning Commission in the gymnasium of Haddam Elementary School. Approximately 26 residents were in attendance.
The key item on the P&Z agenda was as follows:
- Request for a special permit to allow for demolition of residential structure listed on Haddam Survey of Historical and Architectural Resources. 140 Dublin Hill Rd. Map 06/ Lot 042. Applicant: Tim Brewer
The goal of the “special permit”, P&Z Regulation 15A is to have property owners make valid attempts to preserve historic buildings. “The Town of Haddam’s ability to protect, preserve and effectively utilize its historical heritage and character for aesthetic, educational and economic prosperity will be enhanced by a regulation which establishes a mechanism to discuss the proposed demolition of these unique and significant structures and possible alternatives to demolition.” (https://www.haddam.org/sites/g/files/vyhlif4486/f/uploads/historic_preservation_amendments_final_approved.docx.pdf)
During the course of the evening the owner of the property presented a number of architectural drawings for the property and discussed the numerous reasons why the Commission should grant his request for a special permit to allow for demolition of the building.
Some problems/concerns sited by owner are the excessive cost it will take to improve the home. As it stands today, the building needs new heating and plumbing systems, kitchen and bathroom installations, and a new septic system. In addition, the chimney needs to be removed, and a water barrier at cellar floor needs to be installed to stop water infiltration.
Mr. Brewer feels that the required investment to the property is disproportionate to the value.
At the close of Mr. Brewer’s presentation, the meeting was open to comments from the public.
A number of concerned residents stood in opposition to the demolition request and stated their reasons.
In a letter to the P&Z Commissioner, residents Neal and Kate Sakash stated they are opposed to the demolition because, “the existence of these historic homes was a major reason why we chose this community over others in the area and it would be a shame to lose one of the town’s most well preserved worker’s houses.”
Elizabeth Malloy, Executive Director of the Haddam Historical Society noted that on July 3, 2020 the HHS filed an objection to the demolition application (objection request expires December 29, 2020). The town ordinance allows interested parties to work to find alternatives to demolition.
In a letter to P&Z, Ms. Malloy stated, “This small worker’s cottage is the best example of mill housing remaining in Higganum close to its historic condition.” It is her belief that Historic buildings “are essential to the identity and unique character of a community.”
The mission of the Historical Society is to “promote and preserve the history and heritage of Haddam to present and future generations.”
After the public comments closed, a motion to consider approval for a special permit for demolition of the property was made by Ed Waller and seconded by Steve Bull.
Discussion was held amongst Commissioners and various options were presented to homeowner.
After discussion concluded, a vote was taken and the request for demolition of the home was denied. The vote tally was 0 in favor, 6 against, and 1 abstaining.
In concluding, the P&Z Commission suggested that the owner “make a good faith effort” in finding options to either save, move, sell, or dismantle property so that it might be reconstructed in the future.
When questioned “What happens after the 180 days?” Bunny Hall Batzner, Recording Clerk P&Z, stated that “The Brewers, if they choose to, can come back before the Commission requesting a special permit to allow for the demolition of a residential structure after the 180-day delay of demolition process is completed (approximately 60 days into the process).”
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Photo credit https://preservationct.org/140-dublin-hill-road-haddam
