HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-10-09 Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
Historic Preservation Commission Î Meeting Minutes
th
October 29, 2025
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
SPECIAL WORKSHOP MEETING
OCTOBER 29, 2025, 7:00 P.M.
PAUL BUNYAN ROOM, CITY HALL
73 HARLOW STREET
MEETING MINUTES
Commission Members Present: Edmund Chernesky
Nathaniel King
Rebecca Krupke
Liam Riordan
City Staff Present: Matt Altiero, Planning Analyst
Anja Collette, Planning Officer
(via Zoom)
Anne Krieg, Development Director
Chair Chernesky called the meeting to order at 7:00 P.M.
______________________________________________________________________
New Business:
Review possible changes to the Historic Preservation Code
Chair Chernesky introduced the agenda item and Commission members present. Also present were
members of the public Steve Freese, Rick Violette, Paul Cummings, Carl Huntley, and Steve Farren.
Member of the public Violette presented drafted ordinance amendments prepared by himself and other
members of the public. Chernesky and Development Director Anne Krieg also provided an overview of
Commissioners, staff, and members of the public discussed proposed amendments to address
emergency situations and new construction.
Member of the public Violette brought up a lack of awareness on the part of potential homebuyers
regarding restrictions on historic properties. Discussed with Commissioners and staff. Violette
suggested that the City register documentation with the
status, so that this would come up during a title search, rather than homeowners not being notified until
after they have purchased a property. Development Director Krieg responded that she would look into
this. Planning Officer Anja Collette noted that a presentation to realtors and developers is being planned
for the end of the January.
Historic Preservation Commission Î Meeting Minutes
th
October 29, 2025
Commissioners and members of the public discussed specific home improvements, such as roof and
window replacements.
Commissioners, staff, and members of the public discussed historic plaques and public outreach efforts,
including requesting funds for this from the City Council.
Commissioners, staff, and members of the public discussed at length proposed amendments to provide
flexibility for the use of substitute materials.
Commissioner King discussed with staff and Commissioners whether there is need for additional
training for Commissioners.
Members of the public Violette and Cummings discussed the need for more consistency with
Commission decisions and ordinance enforcement.
Vice Chair Riordan suggested going through the list of proposed ordinance amendments and briefly
stating agreement or disagreement before continuing further detail discussion. Chair Chernesky agreed.
Commissioners expressed agreement with the recommendation to add flexibility for the use of substitute
materials. Commissioner Krupke expressed some concern with the suggested wording on assessment
of the Secretary of the Interior, which need to be followed to remain a Certified Local Government, which
qualifies the Commission for grant funding. Discussed further with Krupke and Development Director
Krieg. Member of the public Violette discussed economic feasibility and hardship with Commissioners
Chair Chernesky asked for any additional questions or comments. Member of the public Violette
requested that any drafted ordinance amendments to be presented to the Commission be sent to him as
early as available. Member of the public Cummings expressed support for continued conversation with
the public. Member of the public Huntley commented on encouraging property owners to be more
involved and enthusiastic regarding the upkeep of their historic properties. Discussed with
Commissioners and members of the public. Vice Chair Reardon recommended that the City Council try
to find an architect to serve on the Commission. Commissioner King mentioned protecting
archaeological resources in addition to built resources, and suggested including the Penobscot Nation in
this work.
2. Adjournment
Meeting adjourned at 8:54 P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
Sarah Maquillan
Development Assistant
Planning Division