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HARB chair outlines role of historic-district review to protect property values
Summary
Andy Haynes, chair of the Historic Architectural Review Board, described HARB’s role reviewing exterior work in the Hollidaysburg Historic District and said the board uses National Park Service standards when advising council on certificates of appropriateness.
Andy Haynes, identified himself as chairman of the Historic Architectural Review Board (HARB) and explained HARB’s role to Hollidaysburg Borough Council, saying the board’s purpose is to protect the borough’s historic district by reviewing exterior changes and advising council on certificates of appropriateness.
“We only look at the exterior side of the house. And they have to get our approval, which we recommend then to borough council,” Haynes said, describing how HARB follows standards and guidelines aligned with the National Park Service. He told council HARB’s membership includes architects and people with historic-preservation experience and that the board differentiates among properties classified as significant, contributing, or intrusive when applying preservation standards.
Haynes said the board attempts to work with homeowners when historically inappropriate work has been done before the district’s formation, and that HARB tries to resolve issues amicably while protecting property values. Council members thanked Haynes for the overview; there was no formal council action tied to the presentation during the meeting.
