10:52A significant portion of the meeting centered on the condition and future of the historic house, which dates back to 1780 and holds ties to influential historical figures like Amos Kendall. The property, currently under consideration for a $750,000 sale, was discussed at length, with attention given to its structural integrity and restoration costs. An urgent tone pervaded the discussions. The historical commission, conservation commission, and affordable housing committee were among the key stakeholders deliberating the property’s future.

25:22The conservation commission expressed interest in preserving the land due to its proximity to other preserved areas, while other members pondered the feasibility and cost of restoring the house. Concerns were raised about the property’s condition, with mentions of black mold and structural issues. One participant starkly illustrated the challenges by stating, “Unless you gave me a million bucks, I wouldn’t even go through the door,” emphasizing the potential high costs involved in making the house livable.

21:05The possibility of the house serving as affordable housing or a museum was debated, with opinions diverging on its practicality. Some argued against converting it into a museum, citing financial impracticality, while others saw potential in residential use. Habitat for Humanity was mentioned as a potential partner in restoration, although doubts were cast on their capability to handle such a significant project given their reliance on volunteer labor.

12:54Discussion also revolved around engaging a structural engineer to assess the house’s viability for restoration, underlining the necessity of expert evaluation. The Community Preservation Committee (CPC) was identified as a crucial player in funding such an assessment, with a proposed budget of around $500,000 discussed for both evaluation and restoration efforts. There was consensus on the need to ground decisions in factual assessments rather than assumptions, and the board agreed to engage a licensed and insured professional familiar with historical restorations.

37:11The urgency of the decision was underscored by the 120-day deadline for responding to the property’s current owners, with the board recognizing the need for swift and informed action. A town meeting was deemed necessary to appropriate funds, although logistical challenges were acknowledged in organizing such an event within the required timeline.

01:01:44In addition to the discussions on the historic house, the board addressed other significant agenda items, including the authorization of a conservation restriction for the Kennedy Property on High Street. The potential sale of land to the Evangelical Church of Dunstable was also discussed, with the board agreeing to sell approximately 8,274 square feet of land for $7,500 and authorizing the necessary document signings.

01:09:14The appointment of Dawn Door to the Parks Commission was confirmed, with acknowledgment of her past involvement with the Recreation Commission. In the town administrator’s report, updates were shared on various initiatives, including the development of an open space and recreational plan and the Dunstable Community Power initiative. The meeting concluded with a brief discussion on regional collaboration opportunities and the challenges faced by Dunstable in integrating with broader frameworks.