Potential conflicts of interest among the Harwich Historic District Historical Commission resulted in a sudden postponement for a safety fence project at the Harwich Junior Theater on Sisson Road. Chair Mary Mazloki identified that two of the four members present held affiliations that could jeopardize a clean vote, specifically noting that Brendan Looney serves on the Affordable Housing Trust—the applicant—and member Bob maintains an affiliation with the theater. Mazloki took a cautious stance to avoid procedural errors, stating, With no other members here, they might be able to vote under the rule of necessity if counsel gives us that opinion. I just don't want to go forward on something and have it be wrong.

Charles Alexander, representing the Harwich Junior Theater, informed the commission that while the Trust authorized the application, the theater was the primary representative for the site at 265 Sisson Road. Despite this, the board determined a disinterested quorum was not possible during the session. Motion Made by L. Zalis to continue the public hearing for HH 2022-13 to May 28th at 6:00 PM for lack of a quorum. Motion Passed (4-0-0).

The commission also reviewed an ambitious research project by member Lynn Zalis, who has been working to identify every Revolutionary War soldier associated with Harwich. Zalis reported that the list has grown to 450 individuals and that she is currently matching soldiers to existing homes, gravestones, and historical service records. To me, this increases the historic significance of these homes, Zalis said, emphasizing that this data should be a factor when owners propose demolition. When people come and want to tear down these homes, this needs to be brought into the discussions. The initiative arrives as the commission continues to navigate the town’s shift toward an 18-month demolition delay, a measure intended to provide more time to find preservation alternatives for the town's oldest structures.

Construction and restoration plans for several residential properties moved forward following more routine reviews. At 185 Belmont Road, owners Joseph and Penny Majik sought a partial demolition to accommodate two small additions, including a first-floor master suite. Attorney Michael Dunovan explained the project’s intent to maintain the character of the 19th-century home, noting that the exterior will match the existing shingles, trim, and colors. The board focused specifically on a rotting chimney area where vents had been previously exposed. Motion Made by B. Looney to approve HH 2025-11 for 185 Belmont Road with a condition to install a faux chimney using brick or stucco veneer to encapsulate existing venting. Motion Passed (4-0-0).

Similarly, a building extension at 5 Kilding Road was approved for owner Thomas Johnson. The project involves extending an existing bump-out while matching the north-south roofline and natural shingle siding of the main house. Johnson clarified that despite what was shown on initial plans, he would use 6-over-6 windows to ensure consistency across the facade, stating, We intend to carry the same north-south roofline that exists. Motion Made by B. Looney to approve HH 2025-12 for 5 Kilding Road with a condition for like-for-like materials and 6-over-6 windows. Motion Passed (4-0-0).

The board also granted a Certificate of Non-Applicability for Rebecca and Christopher Allen at 745 Main Street for exterior maintenance. Allen explained that the work on the house, cottage, and shed was intended to preserve the current aesthetic, saying, My goal is to paint the trim exactly the same color or as close to it as possible. Motion Made by B. Looney to approve HH 2025-10 for 745 Main Street. Motion Passed (4-0-0).

During public comment, Parallel Street resident Gary shared a personal plea for the long-term preservation of the historic Lentel/Munel house. He recounted his family’s deep ties to the property, which dates back to at least 1910, and his father's role in establishing the town's first historic walking tours. It is a living piece of history, he told the board, expressing fear that the nearly acre-sized lot might one day be targeted for redevelopment. It would be such a shame if someone knocks that beautiful home down. Chair Mazloki encouraged him to maintain an open dialogue with the commission for informal opinions before any future changes are considered.

Finally, the board briefly discussed the ongoing preservation efforts for the West Baptist Church. B. Looney noted that the historical preservation agreement is currently being drafted as a covenant to the purchase and sale agreement recently submitted to Davenport, though little had changed since the last update. A planned appointment for a new representative to the Community Preservation Committee was deferred to the next meeting due to its omission from the formal agenda.