A quick trip through the Town of Charlton’s governmental bodies means that a building permit for reconstruction of the Charlton Tavern could be issued in the coming days.
The Town Board issued a negative SEQR declaration a state-mandated environmental review and granted an exceptional use permit to Michael Maloney at its Monday, April 27, meeting. Maloney, who was not immediately available for comment, now only needs to acquire a building permit to put a shovel in the earth.
He has said his goal is to re-create the historic structure that burned down on a bitterly cold January night this year, the victim of aging electrical wiring. Maloney ` who had inherited the tavern from his father just days before the fire ` previously told The Spotlight that he plans to use period lumber from a nearby barn and adhere closely to the design of the original building, built in 1787.
One notable addition that the Town Board did insist on before approval was the installation of a sprinkler system.
The board also made sure there would be adequate parking between the tavern and nearby general store, said Supervisor Alan Grattidge.
`Everyone was very supportive of the Maloneys and the tavern,` said Grattidge.
The historic home of David and Lynda Green next door to the tavern also burned down in the fire. Though they haven’t approached the town with any plans for the land, Grattidge said that the town will make sure their needs are met when they do.
`This isn’t just focusing on the tavern. We lost two buildings that night,` he said. `The town is very sensitive to their needs, and we’re looking forward to working with the Greens when they come to up with a plan.`
January’s events resulted in an outpouring of support from the community, with fundraisers for both families.
Both the Maloneys and the Greens have been invited to be grand marshals of the upcoming 41st annual Charlton Founders’ Day parade, scheduled for Sunday, June 7, said Penny Heritage, president of the Charlton Historical Society.
`Certainly the whole community has felt the impact of the loss of both those community buildings,` said Heritage. This year’s Founders’ Day theme is Charlton History.
`It’s a community event, and it’s all about the community supporting one another,` she continued.
Activities on June 6 sponsored by the town include the yearly Party in the Park, culminating with fireworks.“