Hingham to Sell Historic North Fire Station at 230 North Street
Key Points
- The sale of the old North Fire Station achieved the 2/3 majority required for land disposition.
- Proceeds will be used to bolster the Capital Stabilization Fund for future projects.
- The property remains under the jurisdiction of the Historic Districts Commission to preserve its exterior.
Town Meeting authorized the Select Board to sell the decommissioned fire station at 230 North Street under Article 21, marking a shift toward utilizing town assets to generate non-tax revenue. Select Board member Liz Klein explained that the sale is part of a strategy to diversify the town's income, stating, The select board has been committed to generating revenue in other ways besides raising taxes... it is time for the town to release this building.
The move drew concern from residents protective of Hingham's historic character. Resident Jen Hagerty argued against the sale, noting, These are historic buildings. They're unique. If we start carving them away, they won't be here.
Town officials assured voters that the building is protected by the Historic Districts Commission, which will oversee any future alterations by a private owner. The motion passed with a strong supermajority, and proceeds from the sale will be directed to the Capital Stabilization Fund to help address the town's mounting infrastructure needs.
Motion: To authorize the sale of 230 North Street, proceeds to the Capital Stabilization Fund.
Vote: Passed (341 Yes, 84 No)