Historic Properties Commission - Minutes - 03/21/2023

WATERFORD HISTORIC PROPERTIES COMMISSION
Minutes of Special Meeting RECEIVED FOR RECORD
March 21, 2023 WATERFORD, CT
The meeting was called to order at 7:05 p.m. by Chairman, John O’Neill. 1923 MAR 28 P 2 Ib
Present: Patrick Crotty, Robert Nye, John O’Neill, Debra Walters ‘TEST: BI Lr
TOWM CLER
Minutes: Motion by R. Nye, seconded by P. Crotty, to accept the minutes of the Regular
Meeting of January 10, 2023 Voting in favor: Unanimous
Public Comment: No comments
Waterford Historic Properties: Re: The Nevins Cottage - R. Nye spoke to the process required,
pursuant to state statute and Waterford ordinance, leading to the demolition of the cottage. Due
to escalating costs, “there are not enough funds available for the building’s stabilization and
exterior rehabilitation.”
Re: Jordan Park House - He believes the town should use the funds, set aside for work on the
cottage, for a feasibility study of the Park House. The focus now should the ongoing care and
maintenance of this town owned historic building.
Pat Crotty spoke about the need for care of the following cemeteries: Durfey Hill, Williams and
Church, and Gorton. Ryan McNamara, Director of Recreation & Parks, in attendance, suggested
that he and Pat be in touch regarding how the town might be able to help.
Waterford Historical Society Happenings: D. Walters shared the schedule of upcoming events on
the green during the Spring and Summer months. She also reported that repair/restoration and
painting of all exterior trim on the Beebe-Phillips House is scheduled to take place this Spring.
Nevins Cottage: See above
Eugene O’Neill Theater Center: J. O’Neill reported that assessment of work needed on the
Mansion is complete and the report is in hand.
Cemeteries: P. Crotty and R. Nye shared mock-ups of signs to be placed identifying the
following cemeteries: Durfey Hill, Harris, Gorton. Motion made by D. Walters to spend up to
$400 to purchase and install signs at these 3 cemeteries. Seconded by R. Nye. Voting in favor:
Unanimous
Kerry Holloway and P. Crotty recently discovered 8 more stones at the Sandpit Burial Ground,
AKA Douglas Cemetery.
Oil Mill District: R. Nye reported that the Oil Mill District has been placed on the National
Register of Historic Districts as of February 3, 2023.

Recreation & Park - Ryan McNamara, Director, answered questions and explained the work
done to date intended to improve the Jordan Park parking lot. The finalized plan, currently being
drawn up, wil] be presented to the HPC for comments and questions.
Pian of Preservation, Conservation, and Development - R. Nye and J. O’Neill reported that work
to complete the plan is going well. All partners involved in its creation have agreed they would
benefit from sharing: a grant writer, website assistance, assistance with repairs/modifications.
Adjournment: Motion by P. Crotty, seconded by R. Nye to adjourn at 8:34 p.m. Voting in
favor: Unanimous
Respectfully submitted,
Debra Walters,
Recording Secretary