Members of the Harriot Commission spent the bulk of their Aug. 26 meeting discussing a draft letter drafted by Commissioner Martha Edgar expressing concern about plans to paint a historic brick building black and how the commission should respond.

Commissioners said the commission’s role is to comment on changes that may affect historic materials and district character rather than to dictate aesthetics. Commissioners suggested edits to the draft letter, including broadening the wording from “original exterior brickwork” to “masonry” so the guidance will also cover granite and other stonework. The commission discussed the difference between painting and staining masonry, how painting older masonry can trap moisture and damage historic fabric, and examples of past projects in Manchester where painted masonry was later removed or sandblasted.

Discussion focused on outreach and early notification rather than immediate regulatory action. Commissioners recommended the revised letter be sent to the Land Use Code steering committee as the city’s land‑use code update is under consideration, and also suggested sending the letter to the Manchester Chamber of Commerce and the Manchester Historic Association to build awareness. Several commissioners proposed a public‑facing outreach plan that could include brochures, a fall or spring public event, and inclusion in Chamber marketing materials; the commission noted it has funds available from an earlier mitigation payment that could be used to produce outreach materials and support public programming related to Pulaski Park’s survey and rededication.

Commissioners also discussed scope and limits of the commission’s authority. Members noted that routine painting of residential homes is generally treated as maintenance that does not require a permit, but that significant changes to building exteriors in the historic review area typically come before the commission. Several members urged the commission to take a collaborative approach — offering guidance, examples of best practice, and an opportunity for property owners and artists to consult with the commission prior to work taking place.

Next steps: Commissioners asked for a revised draft (including the suggested wording change to “masonry”) to be circulated to the commission for track‑changes and for staff or volunteers to reach out to the Chamber and the Manchester Historic Association. The commission also discussed preparing visual examples from city archives showing past whitewashing or painted masonry that was later restored and scheduling a possible public event to explain preservation versus restoration practices.