Township Committee Takes Next Step in Historic House Preservation

From Hillsborough Township:

A public hearing on the pre-qualification requirements was held on Tuesday evening at the Township Committee meeting setting forth the regulations for the general scope of work known as Phase II of the repairs and restoration of the historic Van der Veer—Harris House, located on Route 206 in the Township.

In May of 2008, the Van der Veer-Harris House was officially deemed a historic site, being entered onto the New Jersey Register of Historic Places and the National Register of Historic Places. 

As such, a property with these esteemed credentials cannot be damaged or altered without certain approvals. In addition, such distinction affords the property eligibility for funding for repair and restoration projects.

“There are very stringent procedures that need to be followed when working on a historic building; one such requirement is a pre-qualification hearing setting forth the scope of work to be completed on the historic property," Mayor DelCore said.

"It is important to note that the township is not responsible for any matching contributions regarding this grant,” Committeeman Carl Suraci, liaison to the Finance Committee, said.

"The proposed Phase II project includes two scenarios, which had previously been prepared. Items to be repaired or restored may include the replacement of a portion of the slate roof, flashing, gutters, leaders, etc. as well as porch repairs. The amount of additional grant funding will determine the outcome of this project,” Mayor DelCore said.