Commission Denies Another Slate Roof Replacement, Weighs Child-Safety Railing Request

Commissioners unanimously denied Raymond and Arianna DeLorenzi's application to replace their deteriorating slate roof at 50 Essex Avenue with metal-slate material, despite the owner presenting two professional roofing opinions that the existing slate needed replacement; the commission again suggested the owner consult the National Slate Association about repair options before considering full replacement.

At 50 Douglas Road, the commission approved Hannah and James Vendetti's request to demolish a deteriorated two-car garage, with no replacement planned, but set aside the more contested part of their application: as-built porch columns and railings installed taller than the commission typically approves. Builder Ryan Hodgson told the commission that custom-matching the shorter railing style used elsewhere on the street would be expensive, while Vendetti said she wants the taller railings kept for her child's safety. Commissioners Kopec and Travia will meet with the owner and builder on site to work toward a resolution rather than voting the issue up or down immediately.

The commission approved several other projects unanimously, including garage door and window changes for Vincent Cusumano at 297 Ridgewood Avenue, a smaller replacement deck for Michael and Rachel Loftus at 499 Ridgewood Avenue, a conceptual addition restoring DuVal and Timothy Graham's house at 247 Forest Avenue to its original appearance, and new front steps and railings for Eben Krim at 15 Douglas Road. Herrigel also reported separately approving an emergency demolition of a garage at 212 Hillside Avenue between meetings.

What to watch

• A commission subcommittee is expected to meet on-site with the owner and builder at 50 Douglas Road to resolve the height and cost dispute over porch railings.