Page 116 - Middleborough 2024 Town Report

HISTORICAL
Commission
Structure Demolition Bylaw
The primary preservation tool available to the
Historical Commission is the Structure Demolition
Bylaw, adopted by town residents to help
safeguard historically or architecturally significant
structures. Under this bylaw, the Commission has
the authority to temporarily delay demolition if it
determines that the loss of a structure would be
detrimental to the town’s historical or
architectural heritage. It also enables the
Commission to work with the applicant to find
ways to preserve the history of the structure or site
while also respecting the property owners’ needs
and interests.
In 2024, the Commission reviewed numerous
demolition applications and responded to a
growing number of public inquiries regarding
demolition procedures. Recognizing the need for
greater clarity in the bylaw, the Commission, with
the support of the Town Manager, has begun
working with Town Counsel to drat an
amendment to the Bylaw. This proposed
amendment, expected to be presented at a 2025
Town Meeting, will refine the bylaw’s language to
improve its usability for applicants, the
Commission, and the public.
The Commission continues to encourage potential
applicants to seek the input of the Commission
early on in their process. In this way, solutions can
oten be more readily found and satisfy the
interests of all parties in an eficient and
expeditious manner.
Archaeology
Middleborough’s human history extends back nearly
12,000 years with the first inhabitants settling in the
area that is now known as Middleborough. Protecting
and preserving archaeological resources that connect to
these early Native American people is a critical
component of the Commission’s work.
To enhance these eforts, the Commission has initiated
discussions about developing further guidelines for
safeguarding these valuable resources. This initiative,
supported by the Town Manager, will be further
developed in 2025 and will solicit input from
Wampanoag tribal members.
Stone Walls
Stone walls, like building structures, are an integral part
of Middleborough’s historical landscape, contributing
to the town’s character and scenic roadways.
Recognizing their significance, the Commission has
begun to explore the feasibility of establishing
guidelines to assist the public in preserving these
structures as many other New England towns have
done. The Commission will continue working on this
initiative in 2025.
Acknowledgement
The Commission extends its appreciation to the Town
Manager’s Ofice for its continued support and
collaboration in achieving shared goals. Town Manager
James McGrail has maintained an open-door policy,
encouraging dialogue and inviting the Commission’s
input on preservation matters, such as the restoration of
the historic Town Hall fire curtains and the
redevelopment of the former DPW site.
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