11/21/2024 COMMUNITY PRESERVATION ACT COMMITTEE Minutes

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4 Community Preservation Committee Minutes November 21, 2024 APPOINTMENTS & HEARINGS Begin Review of CPA Applications proposed for May 2025 Special Town Meeting; Ava Costello – Chopchaque Cranberry Storage Barn Preservation; Phase I: Ava Costello was in attendance on behalf of the Historical Commission to request CPA funding for the Chopchaque Cranberry Storage Barn Preservation, Phase I in the amount of $50,000. Through CPA funds at the May 2020 Special Town Meeting, the Town purchased an 11.71-acre active cranberry bog with a 43x30’ barn adjacent to Santuit Pond. The project included several surrounding upland properties encompassing a total of 13.98 acres. Ms. Costello indicated the bog has not been active for the past 4 years, and for safety reasons, the storage barn, an old pump house is planned for relocation if feasible as there is concern with respect to vandalism and other liability issues. Historically, the site was used as a cranberry bog since 1876. The only other barn/storage facility is situated within the grounds of Willowbend. If the barn can be saved, the Historic Commission would work with the Town to determine its best use. The site next to the community garden is currently envisioned as a potential site for the relocation of the barn. It could become a visitors center, or perhaps a museum. With the feasibility determination, the cranberry bog barn could be adapted and re-used, for historical use to be decided upon. Ms. Costello indicated this is a new resource for the Town of Mashpee. Discussion followed with respect to the historic asset of the building and the process to examine the building to determine if it is structurally sound, and if it is possible to transport to include the cost implications thereof. It was noted the One Room Schoolhouse was moved twice successfully. As per CPA requirements, work on a historic building must meet the Secretary of Standards for rehabilitation. It was recommended the DPW Director be consulted regarding the scope of work, along with the support of the engineering firm of Horsley Witten. It is also a requirement of the Historical Commission to designate the barn as a significant resource or structure. Information would be required regarding funds that may be necessary to restore the building as well as the future maintenance of the facility. The Historical Commission was requested to further define the project scope and cost estimate. The application requires a signature of approval from the Town Manager.