The meeting’s most discussion revolved around the signage application submitted by Don Lacius for her bridal shop. Three types of signs were proposed: a magnetic door sign, a wooden hanging sign, and a sandwich board sign. The Commission members expressed enthusiasm for the new business, acknowledging its potential to invigorate the local area. Lacius shared her background as a seamstress specializing in bridal alterations, emphasizing her excitement about establishing a presence in a space with historical significance.

However, the proposal faced scrutiny due to the strict signage regulations in the historic district. According to the guidelines, signs must be painted on wood without symbols or trademarks, and if illuminated, the light must be indirect. The magnetic door sign proposal, although compliant with size restrictions, was withdrawn by Lacius after realizing it could not be displayed consistently without violating regulations if left up overnight.

The Commission also debated the sandwich board sign, which was designed to be freestanding and portable. Concerns were raised about its compliance with the district’s aesthetic standards, as it included symbolic elements that the regulations prohibit. The members discussed issuing a certificate of hardship to allow the sign, recognizing its necessity for directing customers to the shop. Ultimately, the application for the sandwich board was tabled for further consideration.

Attention then turned to the existing signage on the building from the previous business, “Sage and Salt.” The Commission deliberated on how to integrate Lacius’s new signage without creating the appearance of separate businesses. A consensus was reached on using a vinyl decal to cover the old sign, aligning with the existing frame’s material. A roll call vote approved the new sign design.

In another agenda item, Kathleen Sparford was recommended for appointment as an alternative member of the Historic District Commission. Her qualifications, including a background as a clerk of court, were highlighted, and her appointment was approved with one abstention. The recommendation will be forwarded to the select board for final approval.

The Commission also addressed the appointment of a member to the Community Preservation Committee, which oversees the allocation of funds from a new tax under the Community Preservation Act. Due to members’ unfamiliarity with the committee’s responsibilities, the appointment discussion was postponed to allow for further research.

Further logistical matters included the scheduling of future meetings. The current 3:00 PM meeting time was found to be inconvenient for some members, prompting suggestions to consider evening meetings. This matter was also deferred to a future agenda for additional discussion.

The meeting concluded with a review of a request from Glenn and Gary Shepard for roof repairs on the leatherboard shop. The repairs were deemed non-applicable for significant alteration, as they involved using the same materials without visual changes. The Commission granted a certificate of non-applicability, allowing the repairs to proceed.