Government Briefs 10.25.18

Southampton Town

Owners of historic properties who are having trouble maintaining them can apply for a 2019 landmarks maintenance program award. The deadline is Dec. 28. 

Award money can be used to support projects that contribute to the preservation and long-term sustainability of designated properties. Projects can include exterior improvements, structural stabilization, window, door, and shutter restoration, and fixing water penetration issues.

The Southampton Landmarks and Historic Districts board manages the program and has awarded $78,000 over the past five years. Historic properties in Water Mill, East Quogue, Shinnecock Hills, and Hampton Bays have benefited. 

To be eligible for the award, a property must already have been designated a town landmark. Owner-applicants are also required to have basic or enhanced School Tax Relief (STAR) status. The work must be completed in a year and verified by a Landmarks and Historic Districts board member. 

Owners interested in finding out if their property is one of the 980 identified in a 2014 town survey, which might qualify for town landmark status and subsequent benefits, can check a Southampton historic resources survey available online at southamptontownny.gov/390/Historical-Studies-Reports. Applications are available online, as well.