A central point of contention during the meeting involved the proposed expansion of the La Mer hotel. The applicant presented revised architectural drawings focused on the hotel wing, loading area, and landscape plan. The commission acknowledged the improvements made in the revised plans, particularly in response to concerns about streetscaping and massing. Despite progress, the commission continued to engage in discussions on various aspects of the project, including the functionality of the loading area, design elements, and the long-term maintenance and enforcement of the landscaping plan.

A discussion emerged over the ability of the proposed loading dock to accommodate large truck deliveries and the discrepancy between design directives and the actual capacity of the loading area. The discussion extended to the landscaping plan, with some members arguing for a covenant to ensure its maintenance in perpetuity and others favoring the maximum duration allowed by law. The commission eventually granted conditional conceptual approval to the application, with specific attention to the landscaping preservation and design of the gate for the loading dock on New Jersey Avenue.

Another topic was the use of substitute materials, specifically ASAC, on a contributing structure. Commissioners voiced concerns regarding the historical integrity of the property and the district as a whole. The debate centered on whether the use of ASAC was appropriate, considering the commission’s standards and design guidelines. One member emphasized the potential impact on the contributing status of the structure if non-original materials were approved. The commission did not reach a final decision on this matter.

The commission also addressed a range of other applications, including a new garage design on South Broadway. The garage design, including the use of custom wood doors and the inclusion of a vintage car, was discussed at length. Concerns were raised about the size and style of the garage and its compatibility with the historic neighborhood. A motion was made to accept the application with the addition of horizontal clapboard wood siding and changes to the windows.

Additionally, the commission discussed the demolition of a detached garage and the construction of a new one. Questions arose about the size and intended use of the second floor, with the architect asserting it was primarily for storage. The commission approved the demolition and focused on the replication of the Dutch Colonial revival style for the new garage.

The meeting also saw the commission vote to table an application for a proposed garage pending the submission of complete construction drawings. Concerns were expressed about the design of the garage doors and the need for plans regarding changes to the existing house.

Solar panels were another topic of consideration, with the commission debating the placement and visual impact of panels on historical properties. While some commissioners expressed concerns about their compatibility, others acknowledged the environmental benefits and minimal visual impact. The commission approved one application for solar panels that would not be visible from the street.

In addition to these discussions, the commission reviewed multiple other applications, including the proposed renovation of a Carriage House and the demolition of a contributing structure. The commission voted against approving the demolition of the Carriage House.