The most notable discussion of the meeting revolved around the FEMA-mandated elevation of a property on Elephantes Lane. The commission weighed the necessity of raising the building to meet safety regulations against the potential impact on its historical integrity. Chris Cannon, the representative for the property owner, Anne Picardo, presented detailed research, emphasizing the challenges of aligning flood mitigation measures with historic preservation guidelines.

Cannon proposed alternatives such as a floor hatch instead of a spiral staircase to meet safety requirements while maintaining the building’s historical footprint. He argued the necessity of elevating the structure due to FEMA’s regulations, which require the property to be raised to an elevation of 14 feet. This requirement, Cannon noted, was endorsed by both the Cape Cod Commission and the Cooperative Extension for safety and preservation purposes. However, he acknowledged the commission’s concerns about compromising the building’s historic value.

The commission’s debate highlighted differing opinions on balancing regulatory compliance with historical preservation. There was an exchange of perspectives on how raising the building would affect its relationship with neighboring structures and the broader historic district. The commission chair emphasized their role in evaluating the historical significance of the property within the national register district while considering potential compromises.

Further into the meeting, the commission addressed the broader issue of “demolition by neglect,” discussing how to better protect historically significant structures from deterioration due to insufficient maintenance. The need for clearly defined criteria for neglect was underscored, with participants suggesting the establishment of guidelines to aid in enforcement. The commission recognized the importance of backing from the select board, particularly in terms of financial support for homeowners facing difficulties in maintaining their historic properties.

A staff member highlighted the Cape Cod Commission’s shift towards promoting property reuse rather than demolition. The need for a path forward was emphasized, with calls for more definitive guidance and the possibility of adopting existing demolition by neglect laws from other municipalities.

In another significant topic, the commission considered a proposal regarding the historical significance of a house on Barcliffe Avenue. The discussion centered on whether to preserve or demolish a portion of the house deemed historically significant. Members deliberated over the historical value of the kitchen wing, believed to be built prior to 1894, and its impact on the overall integrity of the 1730s house. Despite structural challenges, a consensus formed that the demolition of the wing would not diminish the structure’s historical importance, given the minimal historical elements present.

Additionally, the commission explored the need to update the historical documentation of Chatham’s properties. The discussion focused on “form B’s,” which are used to identify and evaluate historic properties. The commission acknowledged that advancements in technology and resources since the original form B’s were created could enhance the quality of historical documentation. A proposal to update some of the 245 form B’s that are now over 35 years old was discussed, alongside plans to survey an additional 33 properties prioritized from a recommended list of 100.