Chatham commission approves multiple storefront signs, ratifies door and siding exemptions, and approves windows for new salon

The Chatham Historic Business District Commission on June 2 approved a series of sign permits and several administrative ratifications during a brief hybrid meeting at Chatham Town Hall.

Chair Darcy Sequin opened the session and read a gubernatorial order extending certain COVID-era meeting provisions under General Law chapter 3A, section 20. The commission then handled a slate of sign applications and small-scale building changes concentrated on Main Street and nearby commercial properties.

Applicant Dave Feresi, founder and co-owner of Gustari Gourmet at 400 Main Street, apologized for installing two signs before obtaining permits and asked the commission to approve a directional sign and a hanging sign that help customers find the shop entrance. "I apologize for not asking for the sign permits," Feresi said, explaining that the signs were relocated when the business moved and patrons were entering the wrong doors. Commissioners asked about the sign anchoring and wind resistance; Feresi said the mounting rods extend into studs and the signs weathered the last winter.

The panel approved both Gustari-related applications to continue as presented. Commissioners recorded unanimous approval (Bob Burns, Tim Gilmore, Doug Graten and Chair Darcy Sequin voting in favor).

Robert Ward, owner of Bayside Kitchen & Bath Design Showroom, presented three related sign applications for 6-894 Mson Meeting Way: a ground sign (including a separate telephone-number panel) and two wall signs on different facades. Ward said posts and ground lighting were pre-existing and that he had assumed responsibility after recently taking occupancy. Commissioners asked about paint color, structural integrity of posts and whether the entrance served other businesses; Ward said the entryway is exclusive to his showroom. The commission approved those applications unanimously.

On building alterations, John Hogan presented Application 26-070 to replace a side window at 25 Post Office Lane with multiple double-hung windows to serve a proposed hair salon. Commissioners recommended keeping the triple configuration where feasible; Hogan confirmed the trim would match historical dimensions. The commission approved the window replacement as presented.

The commission also ratified two administrative approvals: Application 26-069, a certificate of exemption to install a rear door at 1615A Main Street (Chatham Moods, care of Orlando Hemings), and Application 26-075, an administrative approval to replace siding and rotted trim with PVC at 812 Main Street (care of MU Construction). Chair Sequin said Darcy and Doug had reviewed the door exemption in advance.

The meeting concluded with a unanimous adjournment at 4:50 p.m.

Votes at a glance: Application 26-050 (Gustari Gourmet directional sign) — motion to continue/approve as presented; mover: Doug Graten; second: Bob Burns; vote: Burns, Gilmore, Graten, Sequin — yes. Application 26-051 (Gustari Gourmet hanging sign) — same outcome. Application 26-071 (Portside Liquors roof sign) — continuance to June 17 by applicant request — approved. Applications 26-072, 26-073, 26-074 (Bayside Kitchen & Bath signs) — approved as presented. Application 26-070 (window replacement at 25 Post Office Lane) — approved as presented. Application 26-069 (certificate of exemption, new rear door at 1615A Main Street) — ratified. Application 26-075 (siding and trim replacement at 812 Main Street) — ratified. Adjournment motion — approved.

The commission did not set new hearings or make any final code-enforcement findings on unauthorized installations beyond approving the permit continuations and ratifications; applicants were advised to secure proper permits and follow up with staff.