Tonight In Newton: Community Forum On Historic Preservation

NEWTON, MA — Newton mayoral candidate Amy Sangiolo is hosting an online community forum on Monday, Oct. 11 at 7 p.m. to discuss the destruction of the Gershom Hyde House and protections for historic buildings in Newton.

"Lets Talk About Historic Preservation" comes as the Newton Historical Commission decides how to proceed following the destruction of the Gershom Hyde House at 29 Greenwood Street in Oak Hill.

The Gershom Hyde House, which was built in 1744 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1986, was torn down without warning by developer Ty Gupta, according to Department of Planning and Development meeting minutes from the May 27 session.

Although Gupta is currently being charged a fine of $300 per day for violating the landmark ordinance, he is still seeking approval to continue work on the property.

"With only 25 landmark properties remaining, we cannot afford to set the precedent thatdevelopers can destroy historic structures for profit," said Sangiolo in a statement.

Monday's forum is the third in a series of online community forums hosted by Sangiolo as part of her campaign. To register for the Zoom discussion, click here. Anyone with questions can email teamsangiolo@gmail.com.