Historic District Commission Meeting Minutes

4 February 2003

Present: Dixon, Mike; Edwards, Ron & Audrey; Malin, Jesse; Pugh, Mike; Sennstrom, Eric

Absent: Cairns, Ed & Sally

Call to Order

Vice Chairman Mike Dixon called the meeting to order at 3:00 p.m.

Approval of Minutes

Motion made by Mike Pugh, seconded by Ron Edwards to approve the minutes from the 7 January 2003 meeting.  HDC voted unanimously to approve the minutes.

New Business

The HDC has not made any inspections on the pre-applications since the last meeting.

Clendenin-Freeman Farm - Audrey Edwards stated that this property is well worth including on list of locally designated properties.  She continued that there are original elements as well as additions and she recommends approval of the nomination.  Director Sennstrom presented summarized the application as follows: Historic Significance - Freeman family has owned the farm since 1870.  Architectural Significance - Main house, tenant house, barn and wagon shed represent an interesting record of the changing needs of the family and farming since the 1870's.  The tenant house has had few changes over the years and represents a 19th century farm house.  The main house was originally erected in the 19th century as a stone/stucco dwelling.  Mike Pugh queried as to whether the entire property is included with the nomination.  Director Sennstrom answered in the affirmative.  Ron Edwards stated that this property is important to show how agricultural housing has changed over the years.

Motion made by Ron Edwards to recommend historic designation, seconded by Jesse Malin.  HDC voted unanimously to recommend historic designation.

England Family Farm - Director Sennstrom presented a summary of the nomination application as follows:  Historic significance - Joseph England purchased 500 acres in 1723.  Samuel England, Joseph's son, erected a home and barn on the property in 1739.  Additional buildings erected by Samuel in 1785.  Buildings still in use in 2003.  Restoration done to farmhouse circa 1860.  Mason/Dixon survey of Pennsylvania/Maryland border in 1787 cost the farm 231.5 acres.  Architectural significance - The dwelling and outbuildings exemplify 18th and 19th century building techniques.  Ron Edwards added that the basic log house is still there, that is very important to note. 

Motion made by Mike Pugh to recommend historic designation, seconded by Ron Edwards.  HDC voted unanimously to recommend historic designation.

Mike Pugh suggested amending the nomination form to include area for applicant to provide an indication on what portion of the property is included in the application.  Ron & Audrey Edwards agreed.  Director Sennstrom indicated that the form will be looked at to amend.

Old Business

Director Sennstrom notified the HDC that MHT has not yet scheduled a time when they can provide easement training to the HDC.

Mike Pugh questioned whether another workshop is necessary.  Ron Edwards stated that it is too soon.  Another should be scheduled in the fall.

Motion to adjourn made by Mike Pugh, seconded by Ron Edwards.  All in favor, meeting adjourned at 3:10 p.m.

Next Meeting: Tuesday, 4 March 2003, 3:00 pm., P&Z conference room.