The meeting’s focus was on the presentation of the final draft plan for the historic preservation master plan element. San Chavan and Siri Olsen from H2M Consulting and Eastern Architects highlighted the extensive public engagement that informed the plan, including workshops and community surveys. They discussed the importance of historic preservation in maintaining community identity and stimulating economic growth, as well as the challenges of integrating new development with historic conservation.

The draft plan includes recommendations such as seeking Certified Local Government (CLG) designation, establishing rehabilitation incentives, improving historic district signage, and researching the city’s African-American history. Specific properties and areas, including the Hilton Holden house, Bergen Hill, and the Sherwood Claremont historic district, were noted as areas of interest.

Debate arose around recommendations to increase density within historic zone districts. Commissioners questioned the impact this could have on the historic environment, but staff clarified that the aim was to correct zoning issues and allow more units within existing building footprints. The recommendation was part of a broader discussion on zoning variances and rear yard setbacks.

Members of the public, including Charlene Burke, Nathaly McCormack, and Shireen McCormack, voiced concerns about the need for increased staffing for historic preservation, greater accessibility of historic resource surveys, and broader community engagement. They urged for more educational efforts and the inclusion of more properties within historic districts, pointing out the significance of preserving local history and architecture.

The commission also discussed the potential revision of the demolition ordinance, improvements to the city’s website for navigability of historic resources, and the impact of zoning changes on historic preservation. Concerns about the enforceability of preservation ordinances, especially in areas outside historic districts, were mentioned, with suggestions for stiffer penalties to prevent demolition by neglect.

In addition to the master plan, the commission approved a certificate of appropriateness for an interior renovation and a full-height rear addition project, after detailed presentations by architects and discussions about the visibility and impact on the historic district. The case of a non-responsive application from the French American Academy was also addressed, with the commission voting to dismiss it without prejudice.

The reorganization of the commission was briefly mentioned, with the confirmation of current officers for another term, reminding members to consider nominations for new officers the following year. The commission emphasized the importance of completing financial disclosures and concluded the meeting without the need for resolutions or an executive session.