[MassHistPres] Supermajority vote for Demolition Permits

[Hillary Hedges Rayport]

Hi Everyone,

 

Nantucket’s 2026 ATM will consider Article 72, a bylaw amendment that would change the quantum of vote for demolition permits from a simple majority to a 2/3rds vote of the Nantucket Historic District Commission. This would be for structures 50 years old or older. 

 

Nantucket’s Historic District statute is a Special Act, but the Act, like MGL 40C, is silent on quantum of vote – it therefore follows a simple majority rule. While Nantucket does have the option of petitioning to change the Special Act, it’s much simpler and faster to enact a bylaw.

 

Does anyone know of other municipalities that:
Require a super-majority vote for any COAs?
Have changed the quantum of vote via a local bylaw or ordinance, for any public body (LHD or other) that issues permits?
 

The goal of the ATM article is, of course, to require a greater level of agreement among the LHD commission prior to permitting demolition of a historic structure, as demolition cannot be undone.

 

Thank you for your thoughts!

 

Best regards,

Hillary

__________________

Hillary Hedges Rayport

hrayport at mac.com

(617) 697-6429

 

 

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