FRIENDS' Testimony:

FRIENDS’ Preservation Committee appreciates the restorative work and the proposed Continuing Maintenance Plan (CMP) intended to safeguard these two landmarked row houses. However, because owners of landmarked buildings are already legally obligated under the 1965 Landmarks Law to maintain their properties “in good repair,” we urge the Commission to establish a more rigorous and enforceable preservation framework with higher standards—such as requiring new windows to match the historic wood material and painted finish. These additional protections are especially warranted given the substantial financial benefit the owners stand to realize through the sale of the air rights.

The Committee also requests clear oversight and accountability measures regarding the proposed allocation of 10 percent proceeds to fund the CMP. Specifically, we seek clarification regarding: (1) which entity will be responsible for monitoring ongoing compliance with the maintenance program; (2) what reporting and enforcement mechanisms will be established to ensure adherence to CMP obligations; and (3) which authority will have the power to impose penalties or corrective actions should the owners fail to meet program requirements. These are critical policy issues that should be resolved not only for the present application, but also to establish meaningful standards and precedents for all future Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) proposals involving landmarked properties.

LPC Hearing: May 12, 2026