Stratford commission approves chimney removal at 170 White Street with stipulation to rebuild or match siding

The Town of Stratford Historic District Commission on July 11 approved a previously tabled application for 170 White Street with a condition tied to a chimney alteration. The commission required that if the chimney is removed the owner must either rebuild the chimney to resemble the original structure as closely as possible or replace the void with siding to match the existing house.

Commissioners reviewed drive-by photos and a homeowner letter. Staff noted the chimney’s position on the side of the house and its high visibility from the street. The homeowner’s letter, circulated to commissioners, offered options including painting or rebuilding the chimney. A staff member cautioned that the application had been pending long enough that, if the commission did not take action, it could be approved by default.

During debate, Commissioner Chaz Mazara moved that the commission require either reconstruction of the chimney “as close to the original structure as possible or, in the void left by the dismantled chimney to be replaced by siding to, basically match the existing, siding that exists.” The motion was seconded and approved by voice vote; the commission recorded that the application was approved with that stipulation.

The commission did not take up other old business during this special meeting and adjourned after completing the agenda item.