By Matt Chiappardi, Staff Writer
HIGHTSTOWN — An ordinance to designate Stockton Street as a local historic district that’s been in the works since 2006 seems almost ready to go.
The borough Historic Preservation Committee approved a draft of the ordinance at its Oct. 16 meeting, but the Borough Council delayed its introduction Monday because of what Borough Attorney Fred Raffetto characterized as minor language issues.
Stockton Street is already designated a historic district at the state and federal levels. Mr. Raffetto has said that local designation is critical in protecting homeowners from demolitions and subdivisions. Other local leaders have said it could help with funding applications.
The HPC was expected to discussing the ordinance last night, said Chairwoman Christian Kirkpatrick, who refused to talk about any details of the draft ordinance Wednesday.
She did say that in the past drafts had included what the HPC’s authority would be in the regulatory process, but that portion has since been removed and will be addressed in a separate ordinance.
The district comprises about 14 acres including a portion of Rogers Avenue and is home to about 76 “historic residences” including homes and the First United Methodist Church.

