Historical Commission votes 1899 barn significant, schedules public hearing

WESTON -- September 15, 2020, Weston Historical Commission flags 1899 barn at 420 Concord Road, raising demolition-by-neglect concerns. The commission voted 7-0 to deem the deteriorating timber-frame barn significant on a motion by member Henry Stone, who cited its "age and scarcity," and will hold a public hearing with owner Andy Martin to explore salvaging the frame if the structure cannot be saved standing. Co-Chair Phyllis Halpern said Weston "really should address this demolition-by-neglect problem," noting no bylaw protects buildings outright. The commission separately approved a stone-and-stucco addition at 50 Byron Road on the historic Charles Dean estate property, ruled a garage and chicken coop at 189 Merriam Street not significant, and continued hearings on 28 Montvale Road and 189 Merriam Street to Oct. 13 after members refused to vote on schematic-only plans.