The Harwich Historic District and Historical Commission cleared the way for the full demolition of a Shore Road property on Wednesday, despite the age of an accessory cottage dating back to 1920. Representing owners William and Nancy Dohy, attorney Michael Donovan argued that while the 600-square-foot structure at 75 Shore Road carries a historic date, it was totally rehabbed in 1999 using modern materials like vinyl-clad windows and PVC trim. It didn't retain any kind of historic culture to it, Donovan told the board, asserting the building no longer possessed significant historic character.

While the commission reached a consensus on the demolition, the loss of the small structure sparked a brief discussion regarding the town's housing stock. Member Paul Doane noted that the only thing is you always hate to see a cottage like that torn down, which could be a year-round apartment for somebody. Member Brendan Looney countered that since the cottage was the only potentially aged structure remaining on the lot, it was not substantial enough to protect under current guidelines. Motion Made by B. Dome to approve the demolition with no demolition delay period imposed, finding the building is not historically significant. Motion Passed (5-0-0).

The commission also signaled a move toward a more formal recognition of Harwich’s military history, debating the best way to mark the homes of Revolutionary War veterans. Lynn Dome presented extensive research from the Massachusetts Soldiers and Sailors records, identifying several properties tied to established patriots. The board weighed the merits of bronze plaques versus educational storyboards. Wouldn't it be wonderful in front of each of these houses, you not only had like a sign highlighting this is a revolutionary and a paragraph about the revolutionary soldier? Bob Dome suggested. The commission requested staff to check on available funds to design and print a commemorative pamphlet or revolutionary trail brochure to guide residents and tourists through the town's historic sites.

A recent memo from the new Building Commissioner regarding the commission's purview over like-for-like repairs and architectural colors prompted a plan to bring the commissioner in for a face-to-face meeting. Chair Mary Mazleski clarified that the board generally does not require a hearing for repairs using the same materials and colors, but noted the importance of maintaining oversight on historic properties. I would say that anything that is either in the historic district or that is on a historic home... if it is like-for-like materials... they don't have to come in for the demolition delay, Mazleski said. Brendan Looney supported the outreach, stating it would be nice to have the building commissioner come in and chat with us, see what the intent was regarding potential changes to the appeal process.

Material standards were at the forefront of the discussion for 16 South Street, where homeowner Donna Manning sought to replace cedar shingles and wooden trim with composite materials. Raphael Dos Santos explained the proposal to use Hardy shingles and PVC trim, noting the product looks exactly the same as the existing facade. Mazleski interjected with specific requirements often missed by contractors, stating that typically with PVC, we would require it to be painted and that the nails or screw holes would be puttied rather than using the plastic plugs. The board sanctioned the project with those specific aesthetic conditions. Motion Made by B. Looney to approve the project with no demolition delay imposed, with conditions that the trim must be painted and no plugs used. Motion Passed (5-0-0).

At the Pilgrim Congregational Church at 527 Route 28, the commission sanctioned a roof system upgrade to address ongoing maintenance issues. Agent Drew Kazalt explained that a small, non-visible flat roof has developed multiple holes and is currently leaking. The church will transition from rubber to a TPO synthetic membrane system for better longevity. Motion Made by B. Dome to approve the project with no demolition delay period imposed and no conditions. Motion Passed (5-0-0).

The board also authorized modifications to a classic 1887 captain’s home at 232 Bank Street. Owners Frank and Laura Wise detailed plans to connect the main house to a 1980s apartment addition, creating a master bedroom and expanded kitchen. We're actually not doing anything to the original structure, Laura Wise noted, explaining the focus is entirely on the modern wing. Motion Made by B. Looney to approve the project with no demolition delay period imposed and no conditions. Motion Passed (5-0-0).

Other routine approvals included a re-shingling project at 550 Main Street and a solar panel installation at 21 Homer Road. Regarding the solar panels, a representative from Rooftop Power LLC noted the 1900-era converted barn is tucked so far back from the road that the southern-exposure panels can't be seen from anywhere even close to there. Motion Made by B. Dome to approve the 550 Main Street project with no demolition delay. Motion Passed (5-0-0). Motion Made by B. Dome to approve the 21 Homer Road project with no demolition delay. Motion Passed (5-0-0).

Finally, the board reminded residents that the nomination period for the inaugural Historic Preservation Award is officially open through March 31. Bob Dome noted that nomination forms are now available on the town website, and the commission will soon turn its attention to the design of the commemorative plaques funded by a previous town appropriation. Motion Made by L. Dome to approve the minutes for September 17, October 15, November 12, and December 17, 2025. Motion Passed (5-0-0).