Opinion: In favor of proposed Marion Historic District

To the editor:  

South Street in Marion has been my home for 55 years. Twenty-five years ago, I couldn’t see that a historic district made sense. The designation seemed redundant. I have changed my mind.  

Phrases like “burdensome reviews,” “complexity,” and “scheduling delays” prompt me to remind Marion residents — not just those who live in the proposed district — that this Bylaw only addresses additions, new construction and demolition. The Bylaw is limited to work visible from a public way. If the work is not visible, it’s exempt.  

The Historic District Commission (HDC) review would become part of any required application concerning a new building or alteration to existing property before the Zoning Board, the Conservation Board, and/or the Planning Board. The Commission would complete its review in concurrence with the timing for already required reviews.  

The goal of the HDC is to protect the integrity of new construction in terms of  size, location, and materials. The village “harmony” that I note each time I walk  out my front door is what this Bylaw assures for generations who come to  Marion to live, to visit, or to walk its village streets.  

Marion Village Local Historic District FAQs are available for your detailed review  at the Sippican Historical Society or at the next public information meeting at the Music Hall on March 26.  

Many MA towns have acted to preserve their historic and architectural legacies. Few have the “bones” of history that inspire us to do so. Please join me to vote  “yes” on this proposal at Town Meeting.  

Sincerely,

Sandria Parsons 

Marion