The meeting began with a unanimous decision to approve a proposal for replacing the front door of a residence. The applicant explained the necessity for a new door due to issues with the existing one, which allowed cold air to enter the home. The proposed replacement, a single glass design, was chosen for its traditional appearance. Discussions centered around the materials and design of the door, particularly its thermal efficiency and how it aligned with the house’s historical character. The current door, described as modern with a heavy face and divided light structure, would be replaced by a fiberglass door painted by the applicant’s mother. The board expressed concerns about traditional versus modern elements but agreed that the new door better suited the house’s historical character. A motion to approve the door replacement was passed unanimously, with stipulations about it being field-painted.

Attention then turned to changes at a property on Normandy, where the applicant had adjusted the roofline and removed a balcony based on previous feedback from the commission. These changes, including narrowing the house’s width and adding a decorative feature to the staircase bump-out, prompted discussions about architectural styles and historical accuracy. Board members debated the traditionality of proposed brackets for the bump-out, with a preference for a more traditional design. The commission emphasized the importance of balancing modern needs with historical authenticity and appreciated the applicant’s responsiveness to feedback.

The commission also discussed the ongoing efforts to develop Bryson Hall. A historic preservation architect is currently developing a maintenance scope of work for the hall, with an $8,000 grant secured for its painting. The goal is to complete the work by July 4, 2026, in time for the town’s 250th-anniversary celebrations. Bryson Hall may serve as a focal point for a proposed community bike parade, which aims to create a family-friendly atmosphere. The commission is considering how Bryson Hall’s completion will align with the anniversary celebrations and enhance community engagement.

The meeting also addressed plans for the 21 Park initiative. A community open house had been held to gather feedback, with desires expressed for a living shoreline and a passive park design. Concerns were raised about the historic dock remnants, which posed both opportunities and hazards. The commission discussed a phased approach to the park’s development, prioritizing site stabilization and public access while addressing safety concerns regarding the bulkhead and pilings.

The historic significance of pilings at the park site was acknowledged, with discussions about preserving them while ensuring safety as the property becomes more accessible to the public. The commission agreed to explore ways to document these elements as part of Fair Haven’s history, noting their past economic significance in trade with New York.

In addition to these topics, the commission reviewed the procedural aspects of repainting a historically significant building, presumably a chapel. The historical color palette for the building was discussed, with an emphasis on restoring it to its original colors to honor its legacy. The commission debated the creation of a memorandum to document their recommendations based on research into the building’s color history. This memorandum would be shared with relevant borough officials and made accessible to the public to educate them about the historical significance of the original colors.