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Design Review Board pauses approval at 198 South Broadway, requires conduit routing and mounting details for rear condensers
Summary
The board declined to approve proposed condenser installations and screening at 198 South Broadway without a diagram showing exact conduit routing and penetrations; the applicant was asked to submit details to staff for expedited review before the next meeting.
The Saratoga Springs Design Review Board on July 30 declined to sign off on condenser (mini‑split) installations and proposed screening for 198 South Broadway until the applicant supplied a clear diagram showing exactly where electrical conduits (set‑lines) and mounting penetrations would run.
Applicant Stephen Chindama told the board the four new units sit in a courtyard and that two additional units were proposed there; some wall‑mounted units already exist. Chindama described the proposed 18‑inch stands and said the units and exposed piping would be painted to match the wall. Board members and staff repeatedly emphasized that the visual impact of conduit runs and where they penetrate historic brick are the critical review points. "We need a diagram of where those conduits are going," the chair said, adding that the board could not move the application forward without that information.
Several members noted field installers commonly run set lines in inconsistent ways, and board members urged the applicant to consolidate and minimize conduits, run set‑line covers in mortar joints rather than through brick, and provide mockups or installer guidance. One member suggested removing the proposed new vinyl screening and using painted wood if screening is required.
The board instructed the applicant to submit conduit routing diagrams and mounting details to staff (Julia) in advance of the next meeting; staff will circulate the materials and offer feedback so the applicant can return prepared. The applicant was told the board expects to review the conduit plan before issuing approval and that the board may be able to expedite consideration at its August 6 meeting if the materials are complete.
No formal vote was taken on final approval; the item remains pending submission of the required installation diagrams.
