Commission approves move-off notice for Starbuck-area house, requests revisions to replacement plan

The Nantucket Historic District Commission voted to allow an existing dwelling in the Starbuck area to be advertised for move-off or demolition, clearing the way for salvage or relocation offers while the applicant pursues a replacement house design.

Under the motion the commission approved the move-off/demo advertisement after hearing the applicant describe efforts to find a taker for the older structure. The board recorded unanimous support for initiating the move-off process; a 6–0 tally was noted in the transcript. The commission stressed the regulatory and public-notice steps that follow a move-off/demolition filing, including the statutory advertisement period for relocation opportunities.

Commissioners asked for additional detail about the proposed new dwelling’s site orientation and massing before final approval. Concerns focused on the relationship between the proposed garage and the house’s primary façade and on how the driveway configuration affects the sense of a front yard. Commissioner Joe said a different driveway layout could help the new house read less exposed from the road and more like it belongs in the site; Commissioner Val asked for a view visit so the board can review how the new massing sits in the existing landscape. The applicant agreed to supply revised drawings and said he will advertise the existing building for move-off as required.

The commission left the replacement-dwelling application open for minor revisions and a site visit; the move-off advertisement may proceed while those materials are prepared.