Ridgefield officials are considering a new local law in order to save historic structures.  The demolition delay ordinance will be discussed during a town meeting on March 4th.  It would give conservationists 90 days to save a historic building built before 1950 or is otherwise historically, architecturally or culturally significant. 

The intent is to give time for preservationists to lobby the owner, raise money and other activities to save the structure. 

An objection to the demolition of a significant structure, with support of The Ridgefield Historic District Commission or The Ridgefield Historical Society, would trigger the 90 day delay on a demolition permit. 

The Ridgefield Press reports that the so-called “pink house” in Ridgebury, one of oldest houses in Ridgefield, was demolished despite a plan to move it to the Ridgebury Congregational Church’s property.  A 1760s house at Gilbert and New Streets was also recently torn down for an apartment building project. 

The Board of Selectmen would have to first approve the proposed ordinance and then send it to a town meeting.  The Planning and Zoning Commission back the proposal.