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Council hears from HARB nominee Katherine O'Flaherty and advances nomination to agenda
Summary
Katherine 'Katie' O'Flaherty introduced herself to council as a candidate for the Harrisburg Architectural Review Board, citing home‑owner experience and recent training in historic window restoration; council members asked about affordability and outreach and moved her nomination to the next legislative session for a formal vote.
Katherine O'Flaherty, who said she prefers to go by "Katie," spoke to the council on March 17 as the nominee named in Resolution 19 of 2026 to serve on the Harrisburg Architectural Review Board (HARB).
Mr. Humphrey read the resolution noting HARB must include specified professionals and residents pursuant to section 7‑317.4. O'Flaherty said she has lived in a historic district for nearly two years, works downtown and has taken classes on restoring historic windows. "I would really love to be a part of helping Harrisburg homeowners and residents… figure out the best way to take care of and keep everything looking historical, but also livable," she said.
Council members asked how she would help homeowners manage the cost of required historic‑district repairs; O'Flaherty discussed counseling owners on options, vetting contractors and balancing materials and labor. Building and Housing Committee Chair Councilwoman Davis and other members expressed support for her volunteer candidacy. President Hill moved to add Resolution 19 to the next legislative session agenda for a formal vote.
Why it matters: HARB reviews changes in historic overlay districts; appointees serve three‑year terms under the cited municipal code provision.
What’s next: Council advanced Resolution 19 to the next legislative session for a formal vote; the work session did not record a final confirmation vote.
