Westport Historical Commission Approves Historic Window Replacements Amidst Aesthetic Concerns

The Westport Historical Commission’s recent meeting on July 1, 2024, was marked by a series of discussions and approvals concerning the preservation and renovation of historic properties, with a particular focus on window replacements. The commission approved the application for window replacements at a property on Main Road, despite public concern over the windows’ compatibility with the district’s historic proportions. Additionally, the demolition of a chicken coop on Horse Neck Road was sanctioned, with the contractors expressing a preference for relocation over demolition.

The commission’s discourse centered on the application for a certificate of appropriateness to replace three windows on Main Road. Diane Rino detailed the proposed windows’ specifications, including the trim boards and colors. Public input raised concerns about the differences between the Elevate and Ultimate Marvin windows, with a stress on the need to adhere to the district’s window proportions. A commission member noted that the existing windows, approximately 35 years old, would not be replaced unless deemed necessary. The debate continued with a focus on the dimensions and design of the proposed window, culminating in a decision that called for further evaluation.

In a related matter, the commission addressed the approval of window replacements and porch repairs at another Main Road property. The commission scrutinized the windows’ dimensions and styles. The certificate of non-applicability for the porch repairs was approved, as the porch was not publicly visible. Furthermore, the issue of a demolished chicken coop on Horse Neck Road was brought to the table; the commission approved its demolition after considering the alternative of relocating the structure.

The commission also discussed a house on Cape Bane, where several windows were lost to winter storms. After debating the visibility of these windows from the road, a Certificate of Non-Applicability was issued for the replacements. Additionally, the commission approved a temporary tent for a wedding event and discussed the minor relocation of a bulkhead in an elevated house, which was determined not to require a formal vote.

Monitors reported on construction at a property on Valentine Lane, where the preservation of antique windows was highlighted for their historical value and durability. The commission engaged in a discussion about the costs and technology of replacement windows for historic houses. The debate included a comparison of prices from different vendors and the acceptability of simulated divided light windows.

The materials and construction of Heritage windows were also a topic of discussion, including the use of pine, AOA wood, yellow cedar, mahogany, low-E glass, and vacuinsulated glass technology. A new Lux wall window type was introduced, priced at $1600 per window, prompting a debate on the cost-effectiveness of new window installations versus sash replacements.

Finally, the annual reading of the Westport Historical Commission trust fund’s documents was conducted. The documents outlined the conditions for using the interest and principal for commission purposes, such as hiring independent professionals or contractors, subject to the board of Selectmen’s approval. The use of trust funds to update the property inventory was also discussed.

Note: This meeting summary was generated by AI, which can occasionally misspell names, misattribute actions, and state inaccuracies. This summary is intended to be a starting point and you should review the meeting record linked above before acting on anything you read. If we got something wrong, let us know. We’re working every day to improve our process in pursuit of universal local government transparency.
Town Administrator:
Jim Hartnett
Historic Preservation Commission Officials:
Caroline Bolter, William Kendall, Rud Lawrence, Michael Walden, Beverly Schuch, Garrett Stuck, Deborah Ciolfi

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