The Roses, who have resided in their Short Hills home for 43 years, seek to add an elevator to accommodate health issues. They emphasized that the elevator’s strategic placement would allow them to maintain their way of life without altering the home’s historic character. The proposed location minimizes visual impact by being set back three feet from the house. However, this proposal has not been without its critics.

Concerns were raised about the elevator’s visibility and its potential to disrupt the historic neighborhood’s character. A suggestion was made to place the elevator behind the house, but the Roses argued this would drastically change their lifestyle, particularly as their main entrance is impractical for accessibility. Instead, they highlighted that the current proposal would not damage the house’s historic fabric, a sentiment echoed by some members who empathized with the family’s need to age in place.

The Commission discussed using different colors or materials to distinguish the elevator from the original structure, aligning with the Secretary of the Interior’s standards. However, the Roses remained firm in their stance, rejecting alternatives that would disrupt their daily lives.

The meeting also addressed other applications, including those affecting the architectural design of properties within historic districts. Notably, a proposal for modifying a house’s roofline and dormers attracted attention. The discussion focused on maintaining the streetscape’s integrity while adapting to modern needs. There was a consensus on the importance of keeping the architectural coherence of the neighborhood intact, despite proposed changes.

Throughout, the Commission grappled with the broader implications of their decisions. Concerns about guidelines for non-contributing properties and architectural variances were voiced, with some participants advocating for a revision of existing policies. The need for clarity and fairness in the decision-making process was a recurring theme.

The meeting concluded with discussions on procedural matters, highlighting the need for improved communication and transparency. Suggestions included more direct communication between commission members and applicants to streamline the approval process and address any misunderstandings. Additionally, an educational outreach initiative was proposed to engage residents with the historical significance of their homes, fostering a deeper appreciation for the community’s heritage.