Neighbors back proposed 90 Ridgewood Avenue rebuild in public comment as HPC continues style debate

Glen Ridge's Historic Preservation Commission spent much of its December 6, 2023 meeting on a proposed new two-story house at 90 Ridgewood Avenue to replace an existing ranch, for owners Miguel and Elizabeth Nieves. Commissioners including Joaquin Stearns, Christine Yewaisis and Chair Geoffrey Darby said the design blended Renaissance-Revival and Prairie-style elements in a way that lacked a clear architectural identity for the historic district, and objected in particular to the juxtaposition of stone, brick and shingle materials and the shape of proposed arches. Two residents spoke in favor during public comment: Philip Johnson of 55 Chestnut Hill Place and Amy Owens of 11 Meade Terrace both said the owners were an asset to the community and urged quick approval. Ultimately the owner asked to continue the application to a future meeting rather than force a vote; Dina Deshan recused herself from this discussion.

The commission approved several smaller applications: converting a deck to a three-season porch at 40 High Street; replacing fire-damaged aluminum siding with fiber cement at 29 Willow Street for John and Maureen Weining, with the commission agreeing to send a letter to the homeowner's insurer specifying the required material; and new brick front steps to match an existing patio at 336 Ridgewood Avenue. October 2023 minutes were approved with Robert Deacon abstaining, and November 2023 minutes with Peter Korian abstaining.

In old business, Vice Chair Yewaisis reported that the Planning Board had upheld the HPC's earlier denial of a slate-to-asphalt shingle swap at 560 Ridgewood Avenue, though two Planning Board members felt the house didn't architecturally require a slate roof and suggested reviewing such requests case by case; HPC members maintained their decision wasn't arbitrary.

What to watch

• The 90 Ridgewood Avenue design is expected to return for further HPC review at a future meeting.
• A front entrance gate and wall design for 90 Ridgewood Avenue is awaiting HPC approval at the next meeting.