Committee requires evidence of preservation restriction work as condition of extension for schoolhouse facade

Committee members flagged a requirement of the Community Preservation Act: projects that receive CPA funds for façade preservation must execute a preservation restriction in perpetuity before funds can be released. Staff said the applicant has plans and fundraising underway but "they haven't started that process yet," and the committee asked for proof that an attorney has been retained and the preservation-restriction work begun by the August meeting, with a likely November date for further review.

Members emphasized that Mass Historical review of that technical document can take a year and recommended the committee require an update showing the restriction process has begun. The committee moved to extend the project to August 24 (and later specified November 30) but made further extension contingent on demonstrable progress toward the preservation restriction.