The Harwich Historic District and Historical Commission signaled a strict stance on architectural authenticity Wednesday night, mandating significant design changes for the renovation of the historic Harwichport Schoolhouse. The project at 16 Schoolhouse Road, involving the 1870-era structure moved to its current site in 1960, sparked a debate over the preservation of Greek Revival versus Victorian elements. While the applicant proposed keeping a bell tower added in the 1960s, Chair Mary Mazlowski argued against its inclusion, stating the scale seems wrong for the building. I'd rather see it removed or replaced with something more appropriate like a cupola.

The commission also clashed with architect Tim Zubac over plans to relocate the front door to improve interior flow. Zubac explained the intent was to balance the proportions, but board member Lynn Zalesak countered that moving the door messes with the history of the building. Paul Dome expressed further concern that the proposed aesthetic appeared more like upscale Pennsylvania or Fairfax County than Cape Cod. Motion Made by B. Looney to approve case HH2025-27 for 16 Schoolhouse Road with the conditions that the bell tower be removed and the new front door overhang replicate the existing Italianate design with less ornate corbels. Motion Passed (4-0-0).

High-profile restoration work is also coming to 13 Silver Street, a Greek Revival home built in the early 1800s. Attorney Michael Donovan informed the board that the owners have enlisted Full Circle Homes, the restoration firm featured on the HGTV program Houses with History, to revitalize the property. The plan includes a new garage with an accessory dwelling unit. Dome praised the project, noting I applaud the efforts to improve this house; it is commendable. However, the board required the builders to ensure the new roof pitches match the original structure. Motion Made by B. Looney to approve case HH2025-25 for 13 Silver Street with conditions that the left front gable match the original house pitch. Motion Passed (4-0-0).

The fate of a house at 134 Bank Street, constructed by the historically prominent Valentine Doane, remains in limbo. Property owner Elizabeth Dugen requested a full demolition, citing a lack of foundation, insulation, and heat. Contractors recommend taking it down, Dugen said, noting the building has been vacant since the 1980s. Zalesak reminded the board of the home's significance, and Brendan Looney expressed hesitation about approving a demolition without a plan for what would replace it. Motion Made by P. Dome to continue the hearing for 134 Bank Street to November 12, 2025. Motion Passed (4-0-0).

A request for a new marketing sign at the Albro House (728 Main Street) met with aesthetic resistance from the commission. Ashley Simington, Director of Youth and Family Services, sought a portable sign to promote community resources, suggesting a weighted plastic model for durability. Dome criticized the plethora of signage in the historic district, telling Simington, I'll probably hold my nose and vote yes, but I ask you to be vigilant about taking the sign in when not in use. Motion Made by B. Looney to approve a certificate of appropriateness for a temporary sign at 728 Main Street, conditioned on using a swinging wooden sign with black or white lettering and a chalkboard insert. Motion Passed (4-0-0).

The commission also clarified its jurisdictional limits regarding the town's 100-year protection bylaw. Multiple applicants, including those for 26 Woodland Road and 21 South Street, argued that their 1925-built homes fall outside the commission's purview, which currently only covers structures built in 1924 or earlier. Motion Made by P. Dome that the commission has no jurisdiction over the property at 24 Pilgrim Road as the structures do not meet the age requirement. Motion Passed (4-0-0).

In other business, the board addressed exterior renovations at the "Freedom Ferry House" at 702 Route 28. Agent P. Barner Gilder explained the owner intends to strip away aluminum cladding to re-trim with exact sizing in wood and reshingle the residence. Motion Made by B. Looney to approve case HH2025-30 for 702 Route 28 with no conditions. Motion Passed (4-0-0). Earlier in the evening, the board also approved a rear addition at 25 Pleasant Lake Avenue. Board member Brendan Looney recused himself as the applicant, while member Bob Dylan reviewed the plans, asking What's showing from the street? It's very little, right? Motion Made by B. Dylan to approve case HH2025-20 for 25 Pleasant Lake Avenue with the condition of adding brick veneer to the new foundation. Motion Passed (4-0-0).