Matters ▸ Attachment
181 Broadway Somerville Preservation Restriction 1-25-22 — File 213172
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PRESERVATION RESTRICTION AGREEMENT
between the
CITY OF SOMERVILLE, MASSACHUSETTS
and
CSHD 3, INC.
THIS PRESERVATION RESTRICTION (this “Restriction”), is made this
day of
, 2022, between CSHD 3, Inc. (“Grantor”), 231 Somerville Avenue, Somerville, MA
02143, and the City of Somerville acting by and through its Historic Preservation Commission
("Grantee"), a governmental body in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, with an address of 93
Highland Avenue, Somerville, MA 02143.
WITNESSETH:
WHEREAS, Grantor is owner in fee simple of certain real property located at 181 Broadway, in
the City of Somerville, Middlesex County, Massachusetts (hereinafter referred to as the
"Property"), being that property conveyed by CASCAP, Inc. in a deed dated September 13, 1995
and recorded on September 28, 1995 with the Middlesex South Registry of Deeds, Book 25689,
Page 343, more particularly described in the Legal Description (Exhibit A), attached hereto and
incorporated herein by this reference; shown as Lot #13 on a plan entitled Plan of Land in
Somerville, MA prepared for CASCAP. 1” = 10’, September 1, 1995, and recorded as Plan No.
724 of 1995 with the Middlesex South Registry of Deeds (the “1995 CASCAP Plan”) (Exhibit
B), attached hereto and incorporated herein by this reference; and shown on an Assessor Parcel
Map for Parcel 77-0-13 (Exhibit C), attached hereto and incorporated herein by this reference,
said Property including the following building (hereinafter referred to as the “Building”):
This former single-family house, built ca. 1888, is a good example of the Queen Anne
style. The Queen Anne style, popular from ca. 1880-1910, employed different roof
shapes and bays, and a variety of siding materials and patterns to create a picturesque
effect. This 2 ½-story building has a very complicated form. The main block has a tall,
hipped roof. A 2 ½-story, gable-front bay extends from the right side of the front
(southwest) elevation, off of which a second, smaller two-story bay with flat roof extends
at an angle. A two-story, hexagonal bay, also with flat roof, extends from the left side of
the front elevation. A one-story, gable-front entrance porch is sandwiched between these
two bays. The building’s envelope is further enlivened by two-window shed-roofed
dormers on the front, left (northwest) side and rear (northeast) elevations of the hip roof,
and there is a one-story hexagonal bay on the left side elevation. The rear ell consists of a
two-story component with a very low-pitched gable roof, and two one-story ells with flat
roofs added in 1996, along with an open deck extending from the rear one-story ell.
The main block of the building rests on a raised, red brick foundation, and the rear ell
rests on a raised concrete foundation. The side and rear elevations and the rear ell are all
clad in wood clapboard. The front elevation is clad in a combination of wood clapboards
and sawtooth and scallop-patterned wood shingles. A beltcourse divides the first and
second stories. The roof is clad in slate shingles (as are the cheek walls of the dormers),
and the roof has a projecting molded box cornice with narrow frieze boards below. Two
tall, corbelled red brick chimneys rise from the main hip roof.
Almost all of the windows are modern 1/1 double-hung replacements. The front elevation
also has some smaller window openings, also with replacement 1/1 sash. The original
windows almost certainly had more complicated muntin patterns. The windows are set in
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flat frames with projecting sills. The beltcourse described above also serves as the lintel
for the first story window surrounds. The frieze boards of the roof cornice serve as the
lintel for many of the second story windows. The window surround of the paired
windows on the angled two-story bay have a pedimented lintel with raised scroll work.
Possibly the only surviving original window is a small stained glass window on the right
(southeast) elevation.
The raised front entrance is located within the gable-front entrance porch. It accessed by
modern cement stairs with wrought iron railings. The paired wood entrance doors each
have small molded panels below large lites. The off-centered doors are set in a flat
surround. There is a second entrance, added in 1996, located on the southeast elevation of
the one-story rear ell. This entrance is accessed by a modern wood stairway. There is also
a handicap access lift. The door is a replacement full-lite door set in a narrow molded
surround.
WHEREAS, the Building and Property are included in the Inventory of Historic and
Archaeological Assets of the Commonwealth, are historically significant for their architecture,
associations and/or archaeology, and qualify for the protections of perpetual preservation
restrictions under M.G.L. Chapter 184, sections 31, 32 and 33 (hereinafter “the Act”);
WHEREAS, Grantor and Grantee both recognize the architectural, historic and cultural values
(hereinafter “Preservation Values”) of the Building, and have the common purpose of preserving
the aforesaid preservation values and significance of the Building;
WHEREAS, the Building’s and Property’s Preservation Values are documented with the
following;
Legal Property Description (Exhibit A);
1995 CASCAP Plan (Exhibit B);
Somerville Assessor Map (Exhibit C);
Massachusetts Historical Commission Inventory Building Form prepared in January,
2021 by Eric Dray (Exhibit D), attached hereto and incorporated herein by this reference,
Seven (7) photographs taken by Eric Dray in January, 2021 (Exhibit E), attached hereto
and incorporated herein by this reference. Archival prints of these photographs will be
stored by the Grantee at Somerville City Hall, Historical Commission files;
Exhibits A, B, C, D, and E, all attached hereto and incorporated herein by this reference, are
hereinafter referred to as the “Baseline Documentation,” which Baseline Documentation Grantor
and Grantee agree provides an accurate representation of the Building as of the effective date of
this Preservation Restriction Agreement;
WHEREAS, the grant of a preservation restriction by Grantor to Grantee on the Building and
Propertywill assist in preserving and maintaining the Building and its architectural, historic, and
cultural features for the benefit of the people of the City of Somerville, Middlesex County, the
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and the United States of America;
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WHEREAS, the City of Somerville City Council appropriated a grant of $125,000 in Community
Preservation Act funds (the “Grant”) in a meeting convened on February 11, 2021, Agenda
item #211201, for the rehabilitation of the Building;
WHEREAS, to that end, Grantor desires to grant to Grantee, and Grantee desires to accept a
preservation restriction (the "Restriction") in gross in perpetuity over the exterior of the Building
and Property pursuant to the Act.
NOW, THEREFORE, for other good and valuable consideration, Grantor does hereby
irrevocably grant and convey unto the Grantee this Restriction in gross in perpetuity over the
exterior features of the Building and Property.
1. Purpose. It is the purpose of this Restriction to assure that the architectural, historic, and
cultural features of the exterior of the Building, as described and documented in the Baseline
Documentation, will be retained and maintained forever substantially in their historically-
appropriate condition for preservation purposes and to prevent any use or change to the exterior
of the Building or Property that will significantly impair or interfere with the Preservation Values
of the Building or Property (the “Purpose of this Restriction”). Characteristics that contribute to
the architectural and historical integrity of the Building include, but are not limited to, the
architectural features, materials, appearance, and workmanship of the Building.
2.1 Grantor's Covenants: Covenant to Maintain. Grantor agrees at all times and to the best of its
ability to maintain the Building and Property in sound structural condition and good state of
repair in accordance with the terms of this paragraph (allowing for historically-accurate
restoration that may be made from time to time). It is the Grantor’s intent that the exterior of the
Building be maintained in a physical appearance and composition that is as close to its current
appearance and composition as is reasonably possible. Grantor’s obligation to maintain shall
require replacement, repair, and reconstruction by Grantor whenever necessary to preserve the
exterior of the Building in sound structural condition and a good state of repair. Subject to the
casualty provisions of Paragraphs 7 and 8, this obligation to maintain shall require repair,
restoration, replacement, rebuilding, and reconstruction of the Building whenever necessary in
accordance with The Secretary of the Interior's Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties
with Guidelines for Preserving. Rehabilitating, Restoring, and Reconstructing Historic Buildings
(36 C.F.R. 67 and 68), as these may be amended from time to time (the "Secretary's Standards"),
and in accordance with the Restriction Guidelines in Exhibit F which are attached hereto and
incorporated herein by this reference.
2.2 Grantor's Covenants: Prohibited Activities. The following acts or uses are expressly forbidden
on, over, or under the Building, except as otherwise conditioned in this paragraph:
(a) the Building (or any portion thereof) shall not be demolished, removed, moved or razed
except as provided in Paragraphs 7 and 8; and
(b) no above-ground utility transmission lines, except those reasonably necessary for the
existing Building, may be created on the Property, subject to any utility easements
already recorded.
3.1 Conditional Rights Requiring Approval by Grantee. Without the prior express written
approval of the Grantee, which approval may not be unreasonably withheld but which may be
subject to such reasonable conditions as Grantee in its discretion may determine, Grantor shall
not make any changes to the exterior of the Building, including the alteration, partial removal,
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construction, remodeling, or other physical or structural change, or any change in material or
color or any change to the footprint, size, mass, ridgeline, and rooflines of the Building, and
including removal, replacement or alteration of any character-defining features, such as doors and
surrounds and cornice trim. Activities by Grantor to maintain the exterior of the Building and
Property which are intended to be performed in accordance with the provisions of Paragraph 2.1,
and which are of a minor nature, shall not require the prior approval of the Grantee. For the
purposes of this section, interpretation of what constitutes ordinary maintenance of a minor nature
is governed by the Restriction Guidelines (Exhibit F).
3.2 Review of Grantor's Requests for Approval. Where Grantee’s permission is required under
Paragraph 3.1, Grantor shall submit to the Grantee two copies of information (including plans,
specifications, and designs where appropriate) identifying the proposed activity with reasonable
specificity. In connection therewith, Grantor shall also submit to the Grantee a timetable for the
proposed activity sufficient to permit the Grantee to monitor such activity. Within forty-five (45)
days of the Grantee's receipt of any plan or written request for approval hereunder, the Grantee
shall certify in writing that (a) it approves the plan or request, or (b) it disapproves the plan or
request as submitted, in which case the Grantee shall provide Grantor with written suggestions for
modification or a written explanation for the Grantee's disapproval. Any failure by the Grantee to
act within forty-five (45) days of receipt of Grantor's submission or resubmission of plans or
requests shall be deemed to constitute approval by the Grantee of the plan or request as submitted
and to permit Grantor to undertake the proposed activity in accordance with the plan or request
submitted so long as the request sets forth the provision of this section relating to deemed
approval following the passage of time, provided that nothing herein shall be construed to permit
Grantor to undertake any of the activities prohibited hereunder.
3.3 Archaeological Activities. The conduct of archaeological activities, including without
limitation survey, excavation, and artifact retrieval, may occur only following the submission of
an archaeological field investigation plan prepared by Grantor and approved in writing by the
Grantee and the State Archaeologist of the Massachusetts Historical Commission pursuant to
M.G.L. c. 9, § 27C and 950 C.M.R. 70.00.
4. Standards for Review. In exercising any authority created by the Restriction to inspect the
Building; to review any construction, repair, restoration, alteration, reconstruction or
construction; or to review casualty damage or to reconstruct or approve reconstruction of the
Building following casualty damage, the Grantee shall apply the Secretary's Standards and the
Restriction Guidelines in Exhibit F.
5. Public Access. There is no public access requirement.
6. Grantor's Reserved Rights. Subject to the provisions of Paragraphs 2.1, 2.2, and 3.1, the
following rights, uses, and activities of or by Grantor on, over, or under the Building are
permitted by this Restriction and by the Grantee without further approval by the Grantee:
(a) the right to engage in all those acts and uses that: (i) are permitted by governmental
statute or regulation; (ii) do not substantially impair the Preservation Values of the
Building; and (iii) are not inconsistent with the Purpose of this Restriction;
(b) pursuant to the provisions of Paragraph 2.1, the right to maintain and repair the exterior
of the Building strictly according to the Secretary's Standards. As used in this
subparagraph, the right to maintain and repair shall mean the use by Grantor of in-kind
materials and colors, applied with workmanship comparable to that which was used in the
construction or application of those materials being repaired or maintained, for the
purpose of retaining in good condition the appearance and construction of the exterior of
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the Building. The right to maintain and repair as used in this subparagraph shall not
include the right to make changes in appearance, materials, colors, and workmanship
from that existing prior to the maintenance and repair without the prior approval of the
Grantee in accordance with the provisions of Paragraphs 3.1 and 3.2;
(c) subject to prior review and approval by Grantor, under the terms and conditions of
paragraphs 3.1 and 3.2 herein, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld, the
right to new construction on the Property not attached to the Building, and not blocking
the view of the Building from public ways, subject to all applicable licenses, permits, and
approvals, provided in addition that any new construction shall meet the Secretary’s
Standards; and
(d) the right to provide and maintain a plaque on the Property giving notice of the historical
significance of the Building, subject to Grantee’s reasonable approval.
7. Casualty Damage or Destruction. In the event that the Building shall be materially damaged or
destroyed by fire, flood, windstorm, hurricane, earth movement, or other casualty, Grantor shall
notify the Grantee in writing within fourteen (14) days of the damage or destruction, such
notification including what, if any, emergency work has already been completed. No repairs to or
reconstruction of the exterior of any type, other than emergency work to prevent further damage
to the structural integrity of the Building or the exterior of the Building, shall be undertaken by
Grantor without the Grantee's prior written approval of the work. Within seventy-five (75) days
of the date of damage or destruction, if required by the Grantee, Grantor at its expense shall
submit to the Grantee a written report prepared by a qualified restoration architect and an
engineer who are acceptable to the Grantor and the Grantee, which report shall include the
following:
(a) an assessment of the nature and extent of the damage;
(b) a determination of the feasibility of the restoration of the Building and/or reconstruction
of damaged or destroyed portions of the Building; and
(c) a report of such restoration/reconstruction work necessary to return the Building to the
condition existing at the date hereof.
8. Review After Casualty Damage or Destruction. If, after reviewing the report provided in
Paragraph 7 and assessing the availability of insurance proceeds after satisfaction of any
mortgagee's/lender's claims under Paragraph 9, Grantor and the Grantee agree that the Purpose of
the Restriction will be served by such restoration/reconstruction, Grantor and the Grantee shall
establish a schedule under which Grantor shall complete the restoration/reconstruction of the
Building in accordance with plans and specifications consented to by the parties up to at least the
total of the casualty insurance proceeds available to Grantor.
If, after reviewing the report and assessing the availability of insurance proceeds after satisfaction
of any mortgagee's/lender's claims under Paragraph 9, Grantor and the Grantee agree that
restoration/reconstruction of the Building is impractical or impossible, or agree that the Purpose
of the Restriction would not be served by such restoration/reconstruction, Grantor may, with the
prior written consent of the Grantee, alter, demolish, remove or raze the Building, and/or
construct new improvements on the Property. In the event that the Building is razed or removed
with the approval of the Grantee, Grantor and Grantee may seek to extinguish this Restriction in
accordance with the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and Paragraph 22 hereof.
If, after reviewing the report and assessing the availability of insurance proceeds after satisfaction
of any mortgagee's/lender's claims under Paragraph 9, Grantor and the Grantee are unable to
agree that the Purpose of the Restriction will or will not be served by such
restoration/reconstruction, the matter may be referred by either party to binding arbitration and
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settled in accordance with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts arbitration statute then in effect,
and all other applicable laws, rules, regulations, and ordinances.
9. Insurance. Grantor shall keep the Building insured by an insurance company rated "A-" or
better by Best's, or is current-day equivalent, as the case may be, for the full replacement value
against loss from the perils commonly insured under standard fire and extended coverage policies
and comprehensive general liability insurance against claims for personal injury, death, and
property damage. Property damage insurance shall include change in condition and building
ordinance coverage, in form and amount sufficient to replace fully the damaged Building without
cost or expense to Grantor or contribution or coinsurance from Grantor. Grantor shall deliver
annually and within ten (10) business days of any additional written request by the Grantee,
certificates of such insurance coverage. Upon presentation of evidence by the Grantee that the
insured value is less than the actual replacement value, then the Grantor shall purchase additional
insurance sufficient to cover the actual replacement value. In the event that such a presentation
has been made that the insurance is insufficient, the Grantor shall pay for the Grantee’s cost in
procuring such evidence. Provided, however, that whenever the Property is encumbered with a
mortgage or deed of trust nothing contained in this paragraph shall jeopardize the prior claim, if
any, of the mortgagee/lender to the insurance proceeds.
10. Hold Harmless. Grantor hereby agrees to protect, hold harmless, and defend Grantee, its
boards, commissions, appointees, agents, directors, employees, or independent contractors from
and against any and all claims, liabilities, expenses, costs, damages, losses, and expenditures
(including reasonable attorneys' fees and disbursements hereafter incurred) arising out of or in
connection with injury to or death of any person as a result of the existence of this Restriction;
physical damage to the Building; the presence or release in, on, or about the Building and the
Property, at any time, of any substance now or hereafter defined, listed, or otherwise classified
pursuant to any law, ordinance, or regulation as a hazardous, toxic, polluting or contaminating
substance; or other injury or other damage occurring on or about the Building and the Property;
unless such injury, death, or damage is caused by Grantee or its boards, commissions, appointees,
agents, directors, employees, or independent contractors.
11. Written Notice. Any notice which either Grantor or Grantee may desire or be required to give
to the other party shall be in writing and shall be mailed postage prepaid by overnight courier,
registered or certified mail with return receipt requested, or hand delivered as follows:
To Grantor:
CSHD 3, Inc.
231 Somerville Avenue
Somerville, MA 02143
To Grantee:
City of Somerville by and through
Somerville Historic Preservation Commission
Somerville City Hall
93 Highland Avenue
Somerville, MA 02143
or to such address as any of the above parties shall designate from time to time by written notice
to the other. In the event no current address is known or can be reasonably obtained for the party
to which notice is intended to be given, then the party giving notice shall publish such notice in a
newspaper of general circulation covering on at least a weekly basis the City of Somerville, or its
modern-day functional equivalent.
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12. Evidence of Compliance. Upon request by Grantor, Grantee shall promptly furnish Grantor
with certification that, to the best of Grantee's knowledge, Grantor is in compliance with the
obligations of Grantor contained herein, or that otherwise evidences the status of this Restriction
to the extent of Grantee's knowledge thereof.
13. Inspection. Upon reasonable prior notice to Grantor, there is hereby granted to Grantee and its
representatives the right to enter on the Property to inspect the Building, and to enter, including
the interior of the Building, at reasonable times and in a reasonable manner for the purpose of
inspecting the same to determine compliance with this Preservation Restriction Agreement.
Grantee shall inspect the Building a minimum of one time per year.
14. Grantee's Remedies The rights hereby granted shall include the right to enforce this
Agreement by appropriate legal proceedings and to obtain injunctive and other equitable relief
against any violations, including, without limitation, relief requiring restoration of the Building to
its condition prior to the time of the injury complained of (it being agreed that Grantee shall have
no remedy at law), and shall be in addition to and not in limitation of any other rights and
remedies available to Grantee; provided, however, prior to commencement of any legal
proceedings the Grantee shall first send a written notice of its intention to pursue legal action with
a statement of the factual and legal basis of such claim and within thirty (30) days of receipt of
such notice by the Grantor both parties shall enter in good faith into mediation with a mutually
agreeable neutral third-party trained in resolving disputes. The expense of mediation shall be split
evenly between the parties.
Provided that a violation of this Agreement is acknowledged by Grantor or determined by a court
of competent jurisdiction to have occurred, Grantor covenants and agrees to reimburse Grantee all
reasonable costs and expenses (including without limitation reasonable counsel fees) incurred in
enforcing this Agreement or in taking reasonable measures to remedy or abate any violation
thereof. By its acceptance, Grantee does not undertake any liability or obligation relating to the
condition of the Building and the Property, including with respect to compliance with hazardous
materials or other environmental laws and regulations. This Agreement shall be enforced by
Grantee in its sole discretion. Nothing herein shall impose upon the Grantee any affirmative
obligation or liability relating to the condition of the Building and the Property. Failure by the
Grantee to enforce any provision or condition set forth herein, or to exercise any rights hereby
conveyed, shall not constitute a release or waiver of any such right or condition.
15. Notice from Government Authorities. Grantor shall deliver to Grantee copies of any notice of
violation or lien relating to the Building and the Property received by Grantor from any
government authority within five (5) days of receipt by Grantor. Upon request by Grantee,
Grantor shall promptly furnish Grantee with evidence of Grantor's compliance with such notice or
lien where compliance is required by law.
16. Notice of Proposed Sale. Grantor shall promptly notify Grantee in writing of any proposed
sale of the Property and provide the opportunity for Grantee to explain the terms of the
Restriction to potential new owners prior to sale closing.
17. Runs with the Land. Except as provided in Paragraphs 8 and 22, the obligations imposed by
this Restriction shall be effective in perpetuity and shall be deemed to run as a binding servitude
with the Property. This Restriction shall extend to and be binding upon Grantor and Grantee, their
respective successors in interest and all persons hereafter claiming under or through Grantor and
Grantee, and the words "Grantor" and "Grantee" when used herein shall include all such persons.
Any right, title, or interest herein granted to Grantee also shall be deemed granted to each
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successor and assign of Grantee and each such following successor and assign thereof, and the
word "Grantee" shall include all such successors and assigns.
Anything contained herein to the contrary notwithstanding, an owner of the Property shall have
no obligation pursuant to this instrument where such owner shall cease to have any ownership
interest in the Property by reason of a bona fide transfer. The restrictions, stipulations and
covenants contained in this Restriction shall be inserted by Grantor, verbatim or by express
reference, in any subsequent deed or other legal instrument by which Grantor divests itself of
either the fee simple title or any lesser estate in the Property or any part thereof, including by way
of example and not limitation, a lease of all or a portion of the Property.
18. Assignment. In the event that Grantee shall cease to function in its present capacity, Grantee
may convey, assign, or transfer this Restriction to a unit of federal, state, or local government or
to a similar local, state, or national organization that is a charitable corporation or trust qualified
under the Act to hold a preservation restriction, provided that any such conveyance, assignment
or transfer requires that the Purpose for which the Restriction was granted will continue to be
carried out. Grantor shall give prior written approval of such conveyance, assignment, or transfer
by Grantee, such approval not to be unreasonably withheld.
19. Repayment. At such time as the property is transferred, in whole or in part, to an entity
unaffiliated with the recipient or at such time as this restriction is no longer in effect (a
“Determining Event”), then upon such Determining Event, the sum to be repaid to the Grantee
shall be (the following is one version, this may be altered if needed or desired):
(a) fifty (50%) of the total Grant, if the Determining Event occurs on or before the
tenth anniversary of the Effective Date;
(b) twenty-five (25%) of the total Grant; if between the tenth anniversary and the
twenty- fifth anniversary of the Effective Date;
(c) ten (10%) of the total Grant; if between the twenty-fifth anniversary and the
fiftieth anniversary of the Effective Date;
(d) zero (0%) of the total Grant; if after the fiftieth anniversary of the Effective Date.
Should the Grantee’s Community Preservation Fund no longer exist for any reason, such as the
Grantor having opted out of Chapter 44B, the proceeds shall be used in a manner consistent with
the preservation purpose set forth herein as a continuing trust.
20. Alternate Designee. Grantee may, at its discretion, remove and replace its designee to
administer, manage, and enforce this Restriction, provided that any new designee is qualified as
such under the Act and other applicable law.
21. Recording and Effective Date. Grantor shall do and perform at its own cost all acts necessary
to the prompt recording of this instrument in the Middlesex South Registry of Deeds. Grantor and
Grantee intend that the restrictions arising under this Restriction take effect on the day and year
this instrument is recorded in the Middlesex South Registry of Deeds.
22. Extinguishment. Grantor and Grantee hereby recognize that an unexpected change in the
conditions surrounding the Building or the Property may make impossible the continued
ownership or use of the Building or the Property for the Purpose of this Restriction and
necessitate extinguishment of the Restriction. Such a change in conditions may include, but is not
limited to, partial or total destruction of the Building resulting from casualty. Such an
extinguishment must meet all the requirements of the Act and the Laws of the Commonwealth for
extinguishment, including approvals by the City of Somerville and the Massachusetts Historical
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Commission following public hearings to determine that such extinguishment is in the public
interest.
23. Condemnation. If all or any part of the Property is taken under the power of eminent domain
by public, corporate, or other authority, or otherwise acquired by such authority through a
purchase in lieu of a taking, Grantor and Grantee shall join in appropriate proceedings at the time
of such taking to recover the full value of those interests in the Property that are subject to the
taking and all incidental and direct damages resulting from the taking. All expenses reasonably
incurred by Grantor and Grantee in connection with such taking shall be paid out of the recovered
proceeds. Such recovered proceeds shall be paid in the manner as set forth in Paragraph 19.
24. Insertion in Subsequent Instruments
Grantor shall insert a reference to this Agreement, such reference to include Registry book and
page number of this Agreement, into any subsequent deed or other legal instrument by which
Grantor divests itself of either the fee simple title or any lesser estate in the Property.
Concurrently, with its entering into any such deed or other legal instrument, Grantor shall give
written notice to Grantee of same. Failure by Grantor to comply with the requirements of this
paragraph 24 shall not affect the validity, enforceability or priority of this Agreement or any lien
arising hereunder.
25. Interpretation. The following provisions shall govern the effectiveness, interpretation, and
duration of the Restriction:
(a) Any rule of strict construction designed to limit the breadth of restrictions on alienation
or use of the Building or the Property shall not apply in the construction or interpretation
of this Restriction and this instrument shall be interpreted broadly to affect its Purpose
and the transfer of rights and the restrictions on use herein contained.
(b) This instrument may be executed in two counterparts, one of which is to be retained by
Grantor and the other, after recording, to be retained by Grantee. In the event of any
disparity between the counterparts produced, the recorded counterpart shall in all cases
govern. Except as provided in the preceding sentence, each counterpart shall constitute
the entire agreement of the parties.
(c) This instrument is made pursuant to the Act, but the invalidity of such Act or any part
thereof shall not affect the validity and enforceability of this Restriction according to its
terms, it being the intent of the parties to agree and to bind themselves, their successors
and their assigns in perpetuity to each term of this instrument whether this instrument be
enforceable by reason of any statute, common law or private agreement either in
existence now or at any time subsequent hereto.
(d) Nothing contained herein shall be interpreted to authorize or permit Grantor to violate
any ordinance or regulation relating to building materials, construction methods, or use.
In the event of any conflict between any such ordinance or regulation and the terms
hereof Grantor promptly shall notify Grantee of such conflict and shall cooperate with
Grantee and the applicable governmental entity to accommodate the purposes of both this
Restriction and such ordinance or regulation.
(e) The invalidity or unenforceability of any provision of this Restriction shall not affect the
validity or enforceability of any other provision of this Restriction.
26. Amendment. If circumstances arise under which an amendment to or modification of this
Restriction would be appropriate, Grantor and Grantee may by mutual written agreement jointly
amend this Restriction, provided that no amendment shall be made that will adversely affect the
qualification of this Restriction or the status of Grantee under any applicable law. Any such
amendment shall be consistent with the protection of the Preservation Values of the Building and
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the Purpose of this Restriction; shall not affect its perpetual duration; shall not permit any private
inurement to any person or entity; and shall not adversely impact the overall architectural and
historic values protected by this Restriction. Any such amendment shall be effective when the
requirements of the Act with respect to amendments have been met and the amendment is
recorded in the Middlesex South Registry of Deeds. Nothing in this paragraph shall require
Grantor or Grantee to agree to any amendment or to consult or negotiate regarding any
amendment.
27. Prior Liens.
Grantor represents and warrants to the Grantee that the Property is not subject to any mortgages,
liens, or leases prior in the right to this Restriction other than the following:
a. Mortgage granted to Grantor by the United States of America acting by and through the
Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, recorded on September 28, 1995 with
Middlesex South Registry of Deeds in Book 25689, Page 348.
b. Mortgage granted to Grantor by the City of Somerville acting by and through its Office
of Housing and Community Development, recorded on September 28, 1995 with
Middlesex South Registry of Deeds in Book 25689, Page 366.
c. Mortgage granted to Grantor by the Community Economic Development Assistance
Corporation, recorded on September 28, 1995 with Middlesex South Registry of Deeds in
Book 25689, Page 379.
The Mortgagees of the above-stated mortgages have subordinated their mortgages to this
Preservation Restriction Agreement with their Assents attached hereto and recorded herewith as
Exhibit G. Grantor agrees not to enter into or permit other mortgages, liens or leases affecting the
Property prior in right to this Preservation Restriction Agreement.
TO HAVE AND TO HOLD, the said Preservation Restriction, unto the said Grantee and its
successors and permitted assigns forever.
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APPROVAL AND ACCEPTANCE BY CITY OF SOMERVILLE
On _____________, 2022, the Somerville City Council, by majority vote, voted to Approve and
Accept this Agreement.
______________________________
Matthew McLaughlin, President, Ward 1 Councilor
______________________________
Ben Ewen-Campen, Vice-President, Ward 3 Councilor
_____________________________
Kristen Strezo, At-Large
______________________________
Willie Burnley, Jr., At-Large
______________________________
Charlotte Kelly, At-Large
______________________________
Jake Wilson, At-Large
______________________________
Jefferson Thomas Scott, Ward 2
______________________________
Jesse Clingan, Ward 4
______________________________
Beatriz Gomez Mouakad, Ward 5
______________________________
Lance Davis, Ward 6
______________________________
Judy Pineda Neufeld, Ward 7
_______________________________
Katjana Ballantyne, Mayor
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Middlesex, ss.
On this ___ day of ________, 2022, before me, the undersigned notary public, personally appeared
Matthew McLaughlin, provided to me through satisfactory evidence of identification which was
_______________________ to be the person whose name is signed on the proceeding or attached
document, and acknowledged to me that Matthew McLaughlin signed it voluntarily for its stated
purpose as Ward 1 Councilor and City Council President, City of Somerville.
______________________________
Notary Public
My commission expires:
(seal)
Middlesex, ss.
On this ___ day of ________, 2022, before me, the undersigned notary public, personally appeared
Ben Ewan-Campen, provided to me through satisfactory evidence of identification which was
_______________________ to be the person whose name is signed on the proceeding or attached
document, and acknowledged to me that Ben Ewan-Campen signed it voluntarily for its stated
purpose as Ward 3 Councilor and City Council Vice-President, City of Somerville.
______________________________
Notary Public
My commission expires:
(seal)
Middlesex, ss.
On this ___ day of ________, 2022, before me, the undersigned notary public, personally appeared
Kristen Strezo, provided to me through satisfactory evidence of identification which was
_______________________ to be the person whose name is signed on the proceeding or attached
document, and acknowledged to me that Kristen Strezo signed it voluntarily for its stated purpose as
an At-Large City Councilor, City of Somerville.
______________________________
Notary Public
My commission expires:
(seal)
Middlesex, ss.
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On this ___ day of ________, 2022, before me, the undersigned notary public, personally appeared
Willie Burnley, Jr., provided to me through satisfactory evidence of identification which was
_______________________ to be the person whose name is signed on the proceeding or attached
document, and acknowledged to me that Willie Burnley, Jr. signed it voluntarily for its stated
purpose as an At-Large City Councilor, City of Somerville.
______________________________
Notary Public
My commission expires:
(seal)
Middlesex, ss.
On this ___ day of ________, 2022, before me, the undersigned notary public, personally appeared
Charlotte Kelly, provided to me through satisfactory evidence of identification which was
_______________________ to be the person whose name is signed on the proceeding or attached
document, and acknowledged to me that Charlotte Kelly signed it voluntarily for its stated purpose
as an At-Large City Councilor, City of Somerville.
______________________________
Notary Public
My commission expires:
(seal)
Middlesex, ss.
On this ___ day of ________, 2022, before me, the undersigned notary public, personally appeared
Jake Wilson, provided to me through satisfactory evidence of identification which was
_______________________ to be the person whose name is signed on the proceeding or attached
document, and acknowledged to me that Jake Wilson signed it voluntarily for its stated purpose as
an At-Large City Councilor, City of Somerville.
______________________________
Notary Public
My commission expires:
(seal)
21
Middlesex, ss.
On this ___ day of ________, 2022, before me, the undersigned notary public, personally appeared
Jefferson Thomas Scott, provided to me through satisfactory evidence of identification which was
_______________________ to be the person whose name is signed on the proceeding or attached
document, and acknowledged to me that Jefferson Thomas Scott signed it voluntarily for its stated
purpose as Ward 2 City Councilor, City of Somerville.
______________________________
Notary Public
My commission expires:
(seal)
Middlesex, ss.
On this ___ day of ________, 2022, before me, the undersigned notary public, personally appeared
Jesse Clingan, provided to me through satisfactory evidence of identification which was
_______________________ to be the person whose name is signed on the proceeding or attached
document, and acknowledged to me that Jesse Clingan signed it voluntarily for its stated purpose as
Ward 4 City Councilor, City of Somerville.
______________________________
Notary Public
My commission expires:
(seal)
Middlesex, ss.
On this ___ day of ________, 2022, before me, the undersigned notary public, personally appeared
Beatriz Gomez Mouakad, provided to me through satisfactory evidence of identification which was
_______________________ to be the person whose name is signed on the proceeding or attached
document, and acknowledged to me that Beatriz Gomez Mouakad signed it voluntarily for its stated
purpose as Ward 5 City Councilor, City of Somerville.
______________________________
Notary Public
My commission expires:
(seal)
22
Middlesex, ss.
On this ___ day of ________, 2022, before me, the undersigned notary public, personally appeared
Lance Davis, provided to me through satisfactory evidence of identification which was
_______________________ to be the person whose name is signed on the proceeding or attached
document, and acknowledged to me that Lance Davis signed it voluntarily for its stated purpose as
Ward 6 City Councilor, City of Somerville.
______________________________
Notary Public
My commission expires:
(seal)
On this ___ day of ________, 2022, before me, the undersigned notary public, personally appeared
Judy Pineda Neufeld, provided to me through satisfactory evidence of identification which was
_______________________ to be the person whose name is signed on the proceeding or attached
document, and acknowledged to me that Judy Pineda Neufeld signed it voluntarily for its stated
purpose as Ward 7 Councilor, City of Somerville.
______________________________
Notary Public
My commission expires:
(seal)
Middlesex, ss.
On this ___ day of ________, 2022, before me, the undersigned notary public, personally appeared
Katjana Ballantyne, provided to me through satisfactory evidence of identification which was
_______________________ to be the person whose name is signed on the proceeding or attached
document, and acknowledged to me that Katjana Ballantyne signed it voluntarily for its stated
purpose, as Mayor, City of Somerville.
______________________________
Notary Public
My commission expires:
(seal)
23
ACCEPTANCE BY SOMERVILLE HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
On
, 2022 the Somerville Historic Preservation Commission, by majority vote,
voted to Accept this Agreement.
Historic Preservation Commission:
Eric Parkes, Chairman, duly authorized
Middlesex, ss.
On this day of
, 2022, before me, the undersigned notary public, personally appeared
Eric Parkes, provided to me through satisfactory evidence of identification which was
to be the person whose name is signed on the proceeding or attached
document, and acknowledged to me that Eric Parkes signed it voluntarily for its stated purpose, as
Chairman, City of Somerville Historic Preservation Commission.
Notary Public
My commission expires:
(seal)
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APPROVAL BY THE MASSACHUSETTS HISTORICAL COMMISSION
COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS
The undersigned Executive Director and Clerk of the Massachusetts Historical Commission,
hereby certifies that the foregoing Preservation Restriction to the City of Somerville, acting by
and through its Somerville Historic Preservation Commission (Grantee), has been approved by
the Massachusetts Historical Commission in the public interest pursuant to MGL, Chapter 184,
Section 32.
By:
Brona Simon, Executive Director and Clerk
COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS
Suffolk, ss.
On this
day of
, 2022, before me, the undersigned notary public, personally
appeared Brona Simon proved to me through satisfactory evidence of identification which was
personal knowledge to be the person whose name is signed on the proceeding or attached
document, and acknowledged to me that Brona Simon signed it voluntarily for its stated purpose,
as Executive Director and Clerk of the Massachusetts Historical Commission.
Notary Public
My commission expires:
(seal)
25
EXHIBIT A
LEGAL DESCRIPTION
The land, with subsequent improvements thereon, in Somerville, Massachusetts described in a
deed dated September 13, 1995 and recorded on September 28, 1995 with the Middlesex South
Registry of Deeds, Book 25689, Page 343, bounded as follows:
A parcel of land with buildings thereon, known and numbered 181 Broadway, Somerville,
Massachusetts, located on the north side of Garfield Avenue and the east side of Broadway,
beginning at a point at the intersection of Garfield Avenue and Broadway, running
N 53° - 31’ - 39” W 47.51’ along the east sideline of Broadway to a point marked with a
drill hole, at land of Trodella, thence
N 37° - 59’ - 46” E 101.21’ along land of Trodella to a point at land of CASCAP and shown
as Lot #12 on the plan referenced hereafter, thence
S 52° - 04’ - 05” E 47.50’ along said Lot #12 to a point on the north sideline of Garfield
Avenue marked by a P.K. nail, hence
S 38° - 00’ - 00” W 100.00’ along the northerly sideline of Garfield Avenue to a point located
4.19’ northeast of a drill hole, said point marking the intersection
of Garfield Avenue with Broadway, said point being the point of
beginning.
Said parcel contains 4,778 square feet land area and is shown as Lot #13 on a plan entitled Plan of
Land in Somerville, MA prepared for CASCAP. 1” - 10’, September 1, 1995, by Merrimack
Engineering Services, 66 Park Street, Andover, MA 01810 and recorded as Plan No. 724 of 1995
with the Middlesex South Registry of Deeds.
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EXHIBIT B
Lot #13 on Plan of Land in Somerville, MA prepared for CASCAP. 1” = 10’, September 1, 1995,
by Merrimack Engineering Services, 66 Park Street, Andover, MA 01810 and recorded as Plan
No. 724 of 1995 with the Middlesex South Registry of Deeds
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EXHIBIT C
Assessor Map
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EXHIBIT D
MHC Building Form, prepared by Eric Dray, January, 2021
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EXHIBIT E
Seven (7) Photographs, taken by Eric Dray, January, 2021
Photo 1. View of front (southwest) elevation, looking northeast.
Photo 2. View of front (southwest) and right (southeast) side elevations, looking north.
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Photo 3. View of right (southeast) side elevations, looking northwest.
Photo 4. View of right (southeast) side elevations and rear (northeast) elevations (partial),
looking west.
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Photo 5. View of rear (northeast) elevations, looking southwest.
Photo 6. View of left (northwest) side elevations, and front (southwest) elevation (partial),
looking northeast.
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Photo 7. View of left (northwest) side elevations, and front (southwest) elevation, looking
northeast.
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EXHIBIT F
RESTRICTION GUIDELINES
A. MAJOR VS. MINOR
The purpose of the Restriction Guidelines is to clarify paragraph three of the terms of the
preservation restriction, which deals with alterations to the Property. Under this section permission
from the GRANTEE is required for any major alteration. Alterations of a minor nature, which are
part of ordinary maintenance and repair, do not require GRANTEE review.
In an effort to explain what constitutes a minor alteration and what constitutes a major change,
which must be reviewed by the GRANTEE, the following list has been developed. By no means is
this list comprehensive: it is only a sampling of some of the more common alterations, which may
be contemplated by the property owner.
PAINT
Minor - Hand scraping and repainting of non-decorative and non-significant surfaces as
part of periodic maintenance.
Major - Painting or fully stripping decorative surfaces or distinctive stylistic features
including murals, stenciling, ornamental woodwork, stone, masonry, decorative or
significant original stucco or plaster.
WINDOWS AND DOORS
Minor - Regular maintenance including caulking, painting and necessary reglazing. Repair
or in-kind replacement of existing individual decayed window parts.
Major - Wholesale replacement of units; change in fenestration or materials; alteration of
profile or setback of windows. The addition of storm windows is also considered a major
change; however, with notification it is commonly acceptable.
EXTERIOR
Minor - Spot repair of existing cladding and roofing including in-kind replacement of
clapboards, shingles, slates, etc.
Major - Large-scale repair or replacement of cladding or roofing. Change involving
inappropriate removal or addition of materials or building elements (i.e. removal of
chimneys or cornice detailing; installation of architectural detail which does not have a
historical basis); altering or demolishing building additions; spot repointing of masonry.
Structural stabilization of the property is also considered a major alteration.
LANDSCAPE/OUTBUILDINGS
Minor - Routine maintenance of outbuildings and landscape including lawn mowing,
pruning, planting, painting, and repair.
Major - Moving or subdividing buildings or property; altering of property; altering or
removing significant landscape features such as gardens, vistas, walks, plantings, walls,
fences; ground disturbance affecting archaeological resources.
HEATING/AIR CONDITIONING/ELECTRICAL/PLUMBING SYSTEMS
Minor - Repair of existing systems.
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Major - Installing or upgrading systems which will result in major exterior appearance
changes (i.e. exterior ducts, piping, ventilators, HVAC units); the removal of substantial
quantities of original materials in the course of construction.
Changes classified as major alterations are not necessarily unacceptable. Under the preservation
restriction such changes must be reviewed by the GRANTEE and their impact on the historic
integrity of the property assessed.
It is the responsibility of the property owner to notify the GRANTEE in writing when any major
alterations are contemplated. Substantial alterations may necessitate review of plans and
specifications.
The intent of the preservation restriction is to enable the GRANTEE to review proposed alterations
and assess their impact on the integrity of the building, not to preclude future change. GRANTEE
will attempt to work with property owner to develop mutually satisfactory solutions, which are in
the best interests of the Property.
B. SPECIFIC STANDARDS
The following standards are included to establish a general level of quality for all work and are
considered essential to achieve the Town's primary objective for the Building and Property.
1. Doors: The paired front doors appear to be historically significant, and possibly original.
These doors must be restored if possible and replaced-in-kind if not possible. If the
existing door in the rear ell requires replacement, the replacement door must be
appropriate in material and design.
2. Dormers and Skylights: Additional dormers and skylights are not permitted.
3. Landscape Features: Exterior landscape features, including plantings, trees, walkways
and fences must not obscure the view of the Building from the street.
4. Lighting Fixtures - Building Attached: Light fixtures may be used but must be minimal in
appearance, appropriate to the Building.
5. Masonry: If repointing is needed for the brick foundation or chimneys, the mortar must
match the joint depth, profile and color of existing mortar, and be of a composition that is
similar or compatible to the existing mortar. Bricks must be retained if possible, and if
not must be replaced-in-kind, including shape, color and material.
6. Mechanical Equipment: Openings made for HVAC or other equipment on the exterior of
the Building must be located in a manner that does not detract from the Building.
7. Paint: Changes in exterior paint colors must be historically appropriate to the Queen
Anne style of the Building.
8. Roof material: The existing slate must be restored if possible, and if not, replaced-in-
kind.
9. Trim and Decoration: Trim and ornamental details must be restored if possible and
replaced-in-kind if not. Cementitious or composite materials may be used, at the
discretion of the Grantee.
10. Siding: The Building is clad in a combination of wood clapboard, and plain and patterned
wood shingles. Wood shingles, including the patterned shingles, must be replaced-in-
kind. Cementitious or composite clapboard siding may be permitted in place of wood
clapboard at the discretion of the Grantee.
11. Storm Windows: Storm windows or storm panels are allowed provided they match the
color of the underlying window surround, and the meeting rails must align with the
meeting rails of the window sash.
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12. Windows: Almost all windows are modern 1/1 double-hung replacements. The Queen
Anne style included windows with a variety of muntin patterns. The original muntins
patterns for the windows on this Building are not known. Replacement window for this
building must be appropriate to the Queen Anne style. If documentary evidence is found
for the Building’s original muntin patterns, they must be followed.
a. Material: Metal or exterior-clad replacement windows will be permitted,
provided they has a factory-applied finish that simulates a painted surface or is
otherwise paintable.
b. Muntins: The three-dimensional profile of the muntins must be as historically
accurate as possible and be between 5/8” and 7/8” wide. The exterior-applied
muntins must be integral to the sash frame to ensure durability. Spacer bars
between the panes of glass should be included to further replicate the appearance
of a true-divided window.
c. Glass: Only non-tinted and non-reflective Lo-E or energy efficient glass may be
used except where tempered and privacy glass are needed.
d. Screens: In order to read the window muntin patterns from the outside, ½ screens
should be utilized where feasible. New technology is providing screens that are
more transparent (e.g. Andersen Windows’ TruScene insect screen) and should
be used where possible.
e. Surrounds and casings: Historically significant window surrounds or casings
should be preserved during the window replacement process.
The stained glass window on the southeast elevation must be retained and restored, or
replaced-in-kind if necessary.