Farmington Historic District Commission Meeting: January 21, 2025
Farmington’s Historic District Commission (HDC) tackled a packed agenda this week, engaging in thoughtful discussions that highlighted the delicate balance between honoring the past and embracing the future. From temporary banners to the complexities of new construction, here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the meeting.
1️⃣ Miss Porter’s School: Summer Camp Signs Get the Green Light
Miss Porter’s School proposed temporary vinyl banners at two of its properties—63 Main Street (Humphrey Dorm) and 87 Main Street (Tim Co residence)—to advertise their new summer camp for elementary-aged girls.
Applicant Presentation
Jackie Murray, representing Miss Porter’s, made a strong case for approval:
- Purpose: “This is our first year offering a summer camp for elementary school-aged girls, and the banners are critical for spreading the word to parents who are making summer plans now.”
- Design & Placement: Each double-sided vinyl banner would be 36 inches high by 72 inches wide, mounted on white-painted wooden posts with cedar caps. The posts would be six feet tall and removable. “One banner will face School Street, and the other will face Church Street, positioned to maximize visibility for passing traffic.”
- Duration: “We’d like the banners up until March, which is when most parents finalize summer arrangements.”
Commission Discussion
Commissioner Jim Calciano raised concerns about the visual impact and durability of the posts:
- Jim: “What material are the posts made of, and will they be painted to match the aesthetic of the historic district?”
- Jackie: “The posts are wood and will be painted white to ensure they blend with the surroundings.”
Commissioner Joanne Lawson zeroed in on safety:
- Joanne: “Church Street is a busy pickup area for parents. How will you ensure the banners don’t obstruct sightlines for drivers or pedestrians?”
- Jackie: “We’ve carefully selected locations to avoid creating any visual obstructions. Additionally, we’ll monitor the placement to ensure it remains safe and visible.”
Public input added another layer to the discussion. Mariah Reisner of 41 Main Street, a parent herself, offered insight:
- Mariah: “I often wait at the corner by Humphrey Dorm, and most of the parents there are already part of the Miss Porter’s community. If you’re targeting new families, you might need to reconsider the placement of the Church Street sign.”
Approval Outcome
After careful deliberation, the HDC approved the application unanimously, with the condition that the posts and banners be removed after the registration period ends.
2️⃣ A New Home on Church Street: A Modern Cape in a Historic District
A significant portion of the meeting centered around an informal proposal for a new home at 88 Church Street, a vacant lot created from a 1995 subdivision. Jack Kemper, representing the property owner, presented early designs for a Cape-style home.
Historical Context
When the lot was subdivided, the HDC recommended seven specific conditions, which the Town Plan and Zoning Commission (TPZ) incorporated into their approval. These conditions included:
- A 70-foot setback from Hart Street to preserve trees and natural character.
- Driveway access from Hart Street instead of Church Street.
- Professional arborist involvement to protect significant trees.
Over the years, natural changes and tree removals have reshaped the lot, raising questions about the continued relevance of the original guidelines.
Applicant Presentation
Jack Kemper outlined the design and challenges:
- Design: “The proposed home is a modest Cape-style house, just over 2,000 square feet, with a first-floor primary suite and two bedrooms upstairs. It’s designed to harmonize with the neighborhood while offering modern functionality.”
- Garage Placement: “We’re proposing a 60-foot setback for the garage instead of 70 feet to maximize backyard space and southern exposure.”
- Materials: “We’re considering flat board siding, potentially LP SmartSide, which is durable and aesthetically appropriate. The windows will feature simulated divided light (SDL), with true muntins for an authentic look.”
Commission Discussion
The HDC debated the proposed setback adjustments and the importance of preserving the lot’s historic character:
- Chair Jay Bambara: “The original 70-foot setback was likely tied to preserving trees, but the landscape has changed significantly since 1995. Many homes on Hart Street are closer to the road. Does maintaining the setback still serve its original purpose?”
- Commissioner Jim Calciano: “While the design is thoughtful and fits the neighborhood, we need to be cautious about overriding past conditions. This isn’t just a zoning issue—it’s about preserving the district’s integrity.”
- Commissioner Henry Fortel: “The house design seems appropriate, but the original conditions explicitly called for a 70-foot setback. TPZ will need to weigh in, but we should carefully consider whether to support any changes.”
Commissioner Michelle Phelan praised the design’s modesty and traditional elements:
- Michelle: “I appreciate the focus on blending with the neighborhood. The scale and materials feel right for the area.”
Next Steps
The applicant will return with a formal application, incorporating feedback from the HDC. The commission also plans to research the original 1995 discussions to better understand the intent behind the conditions.
3️⃣ Election of Officers: A Vote of Confidence for 2025
The commission reelected its 2024 officers, reflecting their steady leadership:
- Chair: Jay Bambara
- Vice Chair: Jim Calciano
- Secretary: Michelle Phelan
“Thank you for your continued trust,” said Chair Bambara. “It’s an honor to serve alongside such a dedicated group as we work to preserve Farmington’s historic charm.”
Thank You to Farmington Storage!
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Closing Notes from Jack Beckett 🖊️
That’s a wrap! I’m Jack Beckett, Farmington’s caffeine-powered chronicler of history and progress. Got feedback? Message us on Twix—yes, it’s still Twix to us—or explore all our stories at We Are Farmington.
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