When I first moved into a house in a historic district (Shaker Village) I wondered how that designation would impact my situation. Almost seven years later, I now have a full appreciation of the benefits, and have been pleasantly surprised by how little burden the compliance requirements are.
Each application to the Harvard Historical Commission (HHC) has been met with enthusiastic support and expert advice. Some of the changes I have made have been significant, such as adding a granite post fence, adding a window where there wasn’t one previously, adding a shed, a new walkway, and creating a courtyard with a privacy screen. The HHC has approved every one of the changes, and acted as a consulting resource for other change proposals.
I was also surprised to learn that some of the contemporary homes in the Quarry Lane subdivision are in the district. Being in the district doesn’t exclude the possibility of development, but it assures that changes that are incongruous to the district will be managed to avoid negative impacts to those in the district. The intent of the HHC’s oversight parallels the protections that the town’s zoning bylaws offer to all residents.
I don’t view the Historical Commission as a group of people trying to prevent me from doing what I wish. I see them as a group that is committed to protecting historic resources in town that make these historic districts vibrant and desirable places to live, while protecting our property from negative impacts. It achieves this while also maintaining the heritage of the town’s special places.
Marc Sevigny
South Shaker Road
