Also in attendance was Dean Marcolongo, Board Solicitor; Paul Dietrich, Board Engineer; Shelley Lea, Board Secretary.
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Paul Dietrich, Upper Township Municipal Engineer, was sworn.
Mr. Dietrich testified this is an unusual clause in the ordinance, section 20-5.14L in the Pineland Management section on the ordinance.
This ordinance requires that the Board review a Certificate of Appropriateness prior to doing anything to a structure with historical significance within the Pinelands.
The Board must essentially analyze a set of standards under the Pineland regulations, NJAC7: 50-156C.
Mr. Dietrich stated that the
Township would like to demolish the structure because of its unsafe condition.
He described the surrounding area.
The structure is believed to have been constructed in the second half of the twentieth century.
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Mr. Dietrich stated that a Certificate of Appropriateness is needed since the structure is over 50 years old and since it is listed as a contributory structure in the listing of the southern historic district for Tuckahoe and listed on the National Register.
The Board must deem whether it is appropriate to demolish the structure or whether to preserve it.
Mr. Dietrich stated that
he has done an inspection of the property and took pictures.
He described the photos in the report showing water intrusion causing rot throughout the structure and how the structure has settled at least 8 inches into the ground.
Due to the numerous modifications that have been made throughout the years there is not a lot of the original structure remaining.
He feels there is no economically feasible or safe way to preserve the structure or to move it.
He feels the only option is to evaluate some of the original historic features such as the cornices; the wood brackets and a 2' x 3' window.
He suggests trying to save these items and record the styling of the structure and make a condition that any replacement structure should have the same historic streetscape.
Mr. Dietrich stated the
Township would incur the costs of the demolition and impose a lien on the property.
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Mr. Dietrich has determined the structure is not re-habitable or moveable.
There is not much of the original structure remaining.
He feels the building should be demolished.
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The president of the historical society agrees with
Mr. Dietrich.
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Mr. Dietrich indicated it is not possible to preserve the structure since it is in very poor condition.
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Mr. Dietrich testified that a street opening on Farm Road is the safest location.