HDC delays decision on preschool windows

LENOX – No decision was made for the preschool that wishes to operate from the Church on the Hill chapel on Main Street to replace eight windows, six over one style, that are located in the basement space of the chapel.

The Lenox Historic District Commission (HDC) felt more information on the replacements was needed and decided to take a site visit during the next meeting, on Oct. 3.

The current windows must be replaced to receive a license to operate a preschool, as they contain lead-based paint.

None of the windows to be changed are visible from the street and can only be seen from the backyard of the Academy Building.

HDC Member Lucy Kennedy did raise some concerns over the materials used to make the replacements – vinyl instead of the traditional wood.

“I have the same problem I had with the Church on the Hill with their windows,” she said. “I know they cost more but the windows should be wood to match the building.”

Ms. Kennedy did acknowledge wood would be more expensive, but that is what the HDC should require.

“I am of the minority opinion on this issue but I feel we are here to protect the look of the historic district,” she said. “Can we really let cost be used again to justify a project?”

Ms. Kennedy’s question referenced a debate from a meeting last month over whether the HDC should demand a property owner to pay extra money to have custom shutters made or to allow them to buy standard shutters. That project was granted approval after some discussion.

After reading a segment from the HDC by-laws, Select Board Chairman Kenneth Fowler pointed out that, under the law, they may need to stay with wood. Although he did point out that some buildings have changed materials in the past, including town hall.

“I think there is some exception for materials when newer materials are available, but we will have to look more in to that,” he said.

Posted by Kameron Z. Spaulding on September 20, 2012. Filed under Community News,News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback to this entry