Castine Preservation Commission approves shed rebuild, tables meter enclosure

The Castine Historic Preservation Commission unanimously approved a request to demolish and rebuild a deteriorating storage shed at 206 Perkins Street. The commission tabled a separate application for a meter enclosure and retaining wall due to insufficient detail in the submission. Commissioners also discussed the ordinance's minimum maintenance requirements and the need for better communication with property owners.

Key points

• The commission voted 5-0 to approve the reconstruction of a small storage building at 206 Perkins Street, which is a contributing property in the historic district.
• The applicant explained that the original structure had unsafe, rotting support beams, necessitating a full rebuild rather than restoration.
• A second application for a meter enclosure, retaining wall, and fence was tabled until the next meeting because the drawings lacked specific details on materials, dimensions, and support structures.
• Public comment from Michelle Robinson highlighted concerns about the application's completeness, potential easement issues, and the cumulative impact of impervious surfaces on water flow.
• Commissioners reviewed Article 13 of the historic preservation ordinance, which mandates the prevention of severe deterioration but does not prescribe specific maintenance schedules.
• The group discussed the role of code enforcement in identifying deteriorating properties and the importance of notifying homeowners about their obligations.

Next steps

• The applicant for the meter enclosure is to submit an amended application with detailed drawings and specifications for the enclosure, retaining wall, and fence.
• The commission will seek to convene a special meeting if the amended application is received promptly to avoid delays due to freezing weather.
• Commissioners plan to discuss the minimum maintenance ordinance with the code enforcement officer to clarify enforcement procedures.
• The commission will consider sending an annual informational letter to historic district residents to explain their responsibilities and available resources.

Read the full transcript