The Orient Association is planning a community meeting on Saturday, July 16 at 10 a.m. in Poquatuck Hall to discuss historic preservation in the hamlet.
Short presentations will be given by members of a panel including the Southold Historic Preservation Commission, Peconic Land Trust, Oysterponds Historical Society, and representatives of the architectural community and the North Fork Methodist Church (owners of the Orient Methodist Church.) The presentations will be followed by a question and answer period.
Handouts will be available from several of the panel members.
Questions such as What is a landmark? Is my house a landmark? Is my neighbor’s house a landmark? Why does it matter? Why not tear it all down and start fresh? are jumping-off points for the discussion expected to take place. Other issues, including the pros and cons of protecting the area’s heritage, are open to discourse as well.
“Historic preservation is absolutely key to the character of our community. It affects everyone, whether or not your, or your neighbor’s home is landmarked. It will determine what Orient will look like over the next century,” Robert Hanlon, the president of the Orient Association said. “The forum is intended to educate, inspire and encourage efforts to preserve and enhance our historic legacy.”
The meeting is free and open to all members of the community and surrounding areas.
Refreshments will be served from 9:30 to 10 a.m. before the panel presentations.
