The most significant agenda item involved a new business application from the City of Cape May for a fence enclosure for HVAC units on Washington Street. The city manager and engineer highlighted the need for proper mechanical equipment screening around City Hall. They proposed board-on-board wood fencing, akin to previously approved fencing next door. A commission member questioned whether this could have been handled in a review committee, emphasizing the importance of public discussion for transparency. After a detailed examination of the proposed fencing and planned cosmetic improvements to City Hall, the commission approved the project.

Another major discussion revolved around a project on Grand Street, associated with K May LLC. The architect representing the property owner noted that this was the third time the project had come before the commission. They discussed previous conceptual approvals and the incorporation of the commission’s recommendations into the new plans. Key points of contention included the design of the front stairs, with commission members asserting that a stair leading to a wall lacked functionality and did not align with the intended streetscape. The architect defended their design, explaining that it aimed to facilitate access between adjoining properties owned by the same family. Despite the architect’s request for a straw vote to gauge preferences, the commission members reiterated their concerns about the visual impact on the streetscape and the overall historic integrity of the neighborhood.

In another discussion, the commission addressed a proposed redesign of a property focusing on various architectural elements, including doors, steps, and walls. Differing opinions emerged regarding the design elements, particularly the choice of railings for the back porches. One commission member strongly advocated for replacing cable railings with a traditional baluster system to align with the commission’s standards. A consensus among several members supported the alternative design, but with a preference for traditional materials. The applicant clarified their intentions to return within two months for further approvals, particularly from the planning board.

The commission also reviewed a new business item concerning a property on Cor Block 1093 Lot 11, identified as a contributing property. Owners Gary and Miriam Waxman presented their intentions to replace several elements of their property, including a chain-link fence, concrete paving, storm doors, and an exterior shower. The commission approved the demolition of a deteriorated shed on the property and discussed the appropriateness of materials for a new shed under construction. The applicant was encouraged to consider horizontal siding to better match the existing house and provide detailed information regarding wooden doors and screen doors intended for installation. The commission emphasized the need for specific details to ensure that the new elements fit the historic context of the district.

Pamela Fine from Fine Architecture presented proposed renovations for the Gallagher property on Grant Street, including replacing windows and wood siding, and converting an existing sunroom into a functional laundry room. The representative confirmed that the new windows would be custom ordered to fit existing openings, addressing concerns about potential discrepancies. The commission approved the application contingent upon the submission of window cut sheets and photographs of the existing conditions.

Paul Faron from Fulam Design Group presented a conceptual proposal for additions and alterations to the O’Connor property on Lafayette Street. The proposal included redefining the exterior of the house and using synthetic materials. Concerns were raised about the appearance of the proposed design, leading to a discussion about incorporating features like shutters to give the house a less uniform look. The commission unanimously approved the conceptual proposal, with conditions to soften the design and consider traditional materials for the decking.

Lastly, the commission discussed the establishment of an award program to recognize outstanding contributions to historic preservation within the city. The proposed framework involves a review process by selected HPC members and an independent panel of judges. The awards would be flexible, with no awards conferred if no suitable nominations are received in a category. The commission aims to publicize the recognition program through the city’s website and social media, inviting community nominations.