The Harbor Master’s building, described by attendees as being in a state of disrepair, was a central focus. The building’s condition was said to be dire, with missing roof shingles, rotting trim, and drafty windows noted as immediate concerns. Bill Chase, the director of marine services and harbor master, emphasized the urgency of repairs to prevent further degradation, stating, “I think we’re very lucky right now that there’s no leak inside the building.” Chase clarified that he did not plan to expand the building, focusing instead on essential repairs to maintain its size and function.

The commission underscored the need to align any renovations with the district’s historical character, discussing appropriate materials for siding, roofing, and trim. The building’s foundation was a topic of concern, given its elevation to accommodate potential flooding. The commission suggested reviewing previous applications to address similar flooding concerns, which could provide insights into whether the building should be raised to mitigate flood risks.

The commission advised a straightforward approach to maintenance to avoid overwhelming costs, particularly in light of the financial challenges presented by the potential need to elevate the building to prevent flood damage.

Participants also debated the possibility of incorporating modern updates, such as a heat pump for reliable heating, considering the current use of small electric heaters that offer limited warmth. The need for ADA access was discussed, with feasibility concerns about installing a ramp due to the building’s elevation. The commission’s role in advising the Community Preservation Committee (CPC) was clarified, stressing the importance of understanding the building’s structural integrity before proceeding with repairs.

A thorough building assessment was proposed to determine the necessary renovations and ensure the preservation of both financial investment and historical value. The commission emphasized the importance of securing a well-defined scope of work, which could aid in obtaining funding and support from interested parties.

In addition to the Harbor Master’s building, the meeting addressed the proposed installation of solar panels on a residential property at 1878D Drift Road. The commission deliberated over the visibility of the panels from public roads and the appropriateness of the roof color, given historical preservation guidelines. The proposal was eventually approved unanimously, allowing the permit process to proceed with the understanding that project monitors would oversee the installation.

The Bell School project was revisited, with Ivonne Bar from the Westport Historical Society presenting additional documentation to address previous questions. The commission evaluated proposed materials for the building’s restoration, focusing on the preservation of historical elements, such as original clapboards characterized by square nails. The commission approved the recommended materials, acknowledging the balance between preserving historical integrity and making functional updates.

Lastly, the commission discussed the installation of an ADA-compliant ramp at the American Legion Hall on Sanford Road, presented by Paul Schmid. The proposal aimed to ensure accessibility to the building’s second floor, with the commission expressing unanimous support for the project after reviewing the design changes and materials.