A focal point of the meeting was the continued support for the historic tax credit application for the BMC Dery Trust building, located at 80 to 84 North Main Street. The Heritage Consulting Group, representing the project, confirmed no changes to the project scope since the last meeting. However, the recent storm had caused some brick to fall from the building’s south facade, leading to emergency stabilization measures. The building had been secured with planks and bolts. Discussion revolved around ongoing interior demolition work, with window replacements still pending. The commission requested updates on the window installation timeline, which had been funded through a Community Preservation Act grant.

Another discussion centered on the Sanford Spinning Mills development, a phased project critical to the city’s industrial heritage. The commission sought clarity on the construction timeline, confirming that the project would proceed in phases. Although a specific start date remained unavailable, the phased approach aimed to ensure thorough preservation efforts. The project faced funding challenges, prompting Ryan LLC to pursue an underutilized properties grant through Mass Development. The commission’s discussion highlighted the importance of securing funding for the project’s success, as well as the potential impact of federal budget decisions on historic preservation programs, although no changes to the federal tax credit program were reported.

The commission also addressed the Notre Dame Rectory on Eastern Avenue and Union Built on Troy Street, with Ryan LLC requesting continued support for historic tax credit applications. Updates on these projects were provided, including a loan restructuring for the Notre Dame Rectory expected to finalize by mid to late September and a completion target for the Troy Street project by January 2026.

The commission planned follow-ups with key stakeholders to ensure comprehensive data collection for the district’s expansion. This effort aligns with the commission’s broader goal of enhancing local historic preservation initiatives.

The meeting also delved into collaborative efforts with Roger Williams University students, who will assist in preparing form Bs for various sites within the district, further engaging the community in preservation activities. Additionally, the commission highlighted the upcoming Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation’s Fall River Heritage Park event, where members would present information on local historical and preservation organizations. This event aimed to clarify their roles and promote public understanding of the cultural district’s significance, with Fall River being one of only 31 designated cultural districts in Massachusetts.

The commission’s support for examining Columbia Street as a potential national registered district was another key topic, as this designation could enable property owners to apply for historic tax credits, fostering restoration efforts and opening avenues for financial support.