Minutes of the Otis Historical Commission: September 5, 2023
ATTENDANCE: Gail Gelburd, Diane Provenz, Celeste Watman, Tom Ragusa, Stephanie Skinner, Joel Meyers, Geoff Pigman, Hal Kobrin, Steve Palinkis. A quorum was present.
The meeting was called to order at 4:30.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
The minutes of the August meeting were approved with the following changes: “the Knox Trail application for recognition was initially rejected by the MA Historical Commission.” Correct the spelling of “Lynn” to “Lynne.”
PRESERVATION ACTIVITIES:
Otis Cultural Center at Historic St. Paul’s:
An RFP was posted, and the contract was awarded to LaRochelle in the amount of $369,000. The work could begin sometime in November. The work that needs to be done includes digging a foundation, the installation of beams, install a vapor barrier in the basement, and an upgrade of existing electricity.
There was a discussion about finding another architect for the next phases of construction.
The work on the removal of the powder post beetles is still pending. Joel mentioned that the ideal time for the extermination is from October – November. Previously, the Otis Preservation Trust gave the Town $20,000 for this project.
Until the loose boards that are hanging from outside of the building are reattached, the weeds can not be mowed.
Gail stated that we need a revised budget, topographical maps, and forms to be completed for the MA Cultural Council grant.
Diane reported that the projected transfer of land from James Siena for the Meditation Garden is expected to be completed by December.
East Otis School House:
The outhouse adjacent to the school house was reattached to the structure. Although the outside of the school needs painting, the rotted wood first needs replacement.
UPDATES:
Tom mentioned that the Knox Trail needs to be listed on the MA State Register, and that the trail needs signage. He also said that the Knox Trail needs to be expanded to include Egremont, Great Barrington, and Monterey.
Steve Palinkis, Vice-President of the Knox Trail Snowriders spoke about a $60,000 grant (from the DCR) and a $30,000 grant for a section of the Knox Trail. Part of the Trail includes a bridge that requires extensive repairs to make it safe. Steve mentioned that additional funds of $120,00 were necessary to pay for the engineering and new design of a 42 ft. span bridge so that it meets DCR standards.
Diane stated that it is possible the video about the Knox Trail will be finished by the end of November.
Stephanie said that OPT may send an annual appeal letter in September.
The application for the Otis Cultural Council grant is now available online.
PUBLICITY:
The thermometer outside the Otis Cultural Center needs to be updated, and this is an opportunity for a photo to be taken, and sent to the Berkshire Eagle, Berkshire Magazine, and the Otis Observer.
CHATTEL ACQUISITION:
Geoff spoke about the possible statute of limitations for the chattels, and that our attorneys mentioned that it might be necessary to file a tolling agreement to suspend the time limitations for acquiring the chandelier. The attorneys are still discussing the best option to follow.
NEW BUSINESS:
The next meeting is scheduled for October 3, 2023.
The meeting ended at 6:10 pm.