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Commission approves ordinance requiring historic-preservation review for projects seeking height increases
Summary
The Planning Commission voted unanimously to approve an ordinance that requires a borough-appointed preservation architect or qualified firm to produce a review for projects subject to the borough's historic-review condition.
The Westchester Borough Planning Commission voted unanimously on April 29 to approve a draft ordinance that requires projects subject to the borough's preservation condition to be reviewed by a qualified architect or architectural firm with a background in historic preservation.
Under the approved draft, applicants requesting development allowances tied to preservation or historic-review conditions would supply documentation and the borough would receive a review letter from a consultant experienced in historic preservation. The ordinance language allows the borough to contract either with a firm or an individual architect; the consultant would provide a written review for Planning Commission consideration.
Why it matters: commissioners said the change will give the borough a consistent, independent technical review when architecture and historic preservation are a formal condition for permitting or for height incentives. Supporters argued the step strengthens review credibility and reduces ad hoc interpretations that have previously led to inconsistent outcomes.
During the public comment period, resident Robert Darrell supported the measure but urged clarity about how reviewers would be selected and whether knowledgeable non-licensed local experts should also play a role. Commissioners discussed giving borough council latitude to appoint the consultant and noted the ordinance already allows a firm to employ qualified reviewers so long as the firm is the contracting party.
The vote: Chair Jim Cherry moved to approve the draft as written; Jason seconded. Commissioners announced the motion carried unanimously. No changes to the ordinance text were recorded at the meeting; commissioners said borough council would handle any final appointment or contracting decisions.
Ending: The commission directed staff to transmit the approved draft to borough council and to confirm solicitor sign-off and contractual language for retention of a borough preservation reviewer.
