Commission Approves Rear Dormer Solar Panels at 170 Hawthorne, Plans Solar Policy Education Session

At its August 7, 2019 meeting, the Historic Preservation Commission unanimously approved a window-removal project and a rear-dormer solar panel installation at 170 Hawthorne Street for owner Doug Snyder, with Commissioner Darby recused. Chair Herrigel noted that solar panels not visible from the street fall outside the commission's jurisdiction entirely, but asked that a subcommittee inspect the roof edge in the field to confirm no issues once installed. The commission also approved a new rear porch at 22 Ridgewood Avenue for Daniel Levy and Lillie Pak, requiring framed lattice and evenly spaced railing posts.

The commission adopted its July 10, 2019 meeting minutes with one unnamed member abstaining. In subcommittee updates, window changes at 1 Mead Terrace remained pending final drawings, and the mortar color mock-up for the Central School renovation was still unresolved, with the commission's consultant awaiting answers from the Board of Education's architect.

Looking ahead, the commission's preservation consultant said it's time to schedule another continuing-education session for members, aiming for November 2019, with topics to include why solar panels are typically discouraged on street-facing roof sections, the role of substitute materials under updated national preservation standards, and a broader refresher on how those standards guide the commission's decisions.

What to watch

• The commission is planning a continuing-education session on solar panel siting rules and preservation standards, targeted for its November 2019 meeting.