Local Historic District informational meeting set

The Local Historic District Study Committee will hold an informational meeting about the creation of a local historic district in the center of Westminster at 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 15, in the Selectmen's Chambers at the new Town Hall, 11 South St.

All residents of Westminster are invited to attend to attend this meeting.

The Local Historic District Study Committee will display a map and photos of homes in the proposed area.

Local historic districts are concerned only about exterior architectural features of buildings visible from a public way. The Study Committee is also recommending that the proposed Commission not review storm doors and windows, paint color, and temporary structures air conditioning units. The decision on which features are exempt from review will be determined by the bylaw that must be written and passed by town meeting vote.

Members are concerned that demolitions and irreversible alterations to existing buildings. Many of the homes in the Academy Hill and downtown area are being considered for the local historic district.

Since much of downtown Westminster is already listed on the National Register of Historic Places, a discussion of the difference between a National Register Historic District and a Local Historic District will also take place.

If anyone has questions about the process as it proceeds, please contact the chairman at (978) 874-1402 or BROGIE27@ msn.com.