The solar panel discussion was multi-faceted, covering the aesthetics and potential visibility from the street. The property owners, Patty and Jonathan Palmer, presented their case with an emphasis on sustainability and the low-profile design of the panels. Despite these considerations, concerns were raised about the reflectivity and the effect on the district’s character. Alternatives such as solar shingles were considered, but economic and visual concerns persisted. The commission ultimately decided to conduct a site visit for a better assessment of the visual impact and scheduled a special meeting to further address the proposal.

In addition to the solar panel debate, the commission approved a heat pump installation for a property on Main Road, subject to project monitoring. The homeowner’s presentation included photos and plans, which showed the unit situated at the rear of the house. Questions arose regarding the location and whether it would replace existing window air conditioners.

The Westport Point Methodist Church sought approval for necessary repairs involving the replacement of a large window and wooden storm window. The representative from the church highlighted the deterioration caused by condensation and assured the commission that the design would remain unchanged. The commission’s approval and appointment of monitors for this project underscored the priority given to the preservation of original designs in repair works.

A property owner from Drift Road requested permission to replace windows, an access door, and the front garage door of a detached garage. The commission reviewed photos and renderings, which included plans to install two carriage doors in place of the current garage door. After discussing the details, the commission approved the request.

The Grange, facing a flooding problem exacerbated by inadequate gutters, presented a case for replacing them. The commission focused on the material choice for the new gutters, considering the longevity and appropriateness for the historic district. This issue was left pending, with the commission requesting more information and photos of the proposed aluminum gutters before the next meeting in June. This discussion highlighted the commission’s role in overseeing modifications to properties that have received funding for preservation.

Legal matters also surfaced during the meeting, with mention of ongoing litigation between the town and an individual named BR. An email about an upcoming legal hearing was circulated, and a letter from Ralph Souza to BR was referenced, which addressed the denial of an application for a certificate of appropriateness and revocation of permits for a property on Main Road.

The election of new officers for the commission was addressed, with discussions around the roles of chair, vice chair, clerk, and the addition of new alternates. Training sessions by Chris Skelly were debated, with considerations for cost and whether they should be public or private. The meeting concluded with thanks to the outgoing chair and a motion to adjourn.