The most critical discussion centered on a renovation proposal for a property on Beach Avenue, a key contributing historic house. The property owners, represented by an architect, laid out plans that included rebuilding the front porch, replacing the siding with white cedar shakes, repairing windows and doors, and constructing a rear addition. The architect emphasized the house’s historical significance, describing it as a “beautiful historic home built in 1912” with Colonial Revival and Craftsman style elements.

Concerns were raised by commission members about the visibility of the proposed two-story addition from the street. A member stressed that “additions that are visible from the front or the side yard are not appropriate,” underscoring the need to preserve the house’s special character. The architect responded by arguing that the addition was set back nearly 40 feet from the front, thus minimizing its visual impact.

Another point of contention was the proposed demolition of about 24% of the house, including the loss of 21 Lancet Arch windows. The commission highlighted that “the footprint and roof lines of the building have not had any major alterations since the historic Sanborn map of 1912,” indicating that such extensive demolition could jeopardize the house’s contributing status within the National Historic Landmark District. The architect suggested replacing the bay window, suspected to be a 1960s addition, with a double-hung window with muttons to better align with the house’s traditional style.

Further dialogue addressed the orientation of the proposed addition. The necessity to respect the house’s historic integrity while accommodating modern living requirements was a recurring theme. The commission emphasized the importance of retaining a portion of the existing structure to allow for expansion without compromising the historic status.

In another development, the commission unanimously approved a new Local District map prepared by city engineer Paul Dietrich. This updated map, dated August 12, 2024, included distinctions between historic properties and regular streets. The approval process highlighted the map’s role in guiding the preservation efforts within the district.

The commission also touched on the potential impact of new flood regulations proposed by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP). These regulations might exempt historic properties from certain elevation requirements, a matter of ongoing investigation by the City Administration. The commission members acknowledged the need for educating residents within the historic district about these changes, as the public comment period for the regulations was still open, and virtual meetings were scheduled for further input.

Another item of interest was the renovation plan for a property on Windsor Avenue, Block 1023, Lots 3 and 4. The project proposed by Paul Kiss, representing John Koh Hower, involved a two-story addition, deck expansion, and patio addition. The commission members raised concerns about the addition’s height matching the existing building, which could visually compete with the original structure. Suggestions were made to simplify the architectural features and lower the ridge height to ensure the addition appeared subordinate.

Additionally, the commission reviewed a project on Corgi, which included lifting the house to meet current flood regulations and replacing asbestos siding with cement board siding. The commission debated the design of the front door, criticizing its modern appearance and suggesting a more traditional style to align with the neighborhood’s historic character. A motion to approve the application with modifications to the front door design and the removal of a third parking space was passed.

The meeting also saw a discussion on the rehabilitation of 1519 New Jersey Avenue, presented by Mark Asher on behalf of Deborah Slan White. This project aimed to restore the house’s exterior elements, including roofing, siding, windows, and doors, adhering to historical accuracy. The commission scrutinized the materials for the windows and screen doors, emphasizing the need for replacements to mirror the original designs.

Lastly, the commission addressed internal administrative matters, such as ensuring proper documentation from applicants and reviewing the approval process for minor work applications. A proposal was made to delay sending approval notifications until the full commission could review and ratify decisions made by the Review Committee, highlighting the balance between expediency for applicants and the need for thorough oversight.