Commission advises planning board on 17 Stillson carriage‑house conversion and advances plan for preservation medallion

The Northampton Historical Commission on June 8 provided advisory feedback to the planning board about a residential conversion at 17 Stillson and took initial steps toward creating a unified historic‑preservation medallion for awardees.

On 17 Stillson commissioners confirmed their role is advisory for site‑plan and conversion approvals under a new ordinance that allows some pre‑1975 accessory structures to be used as dwelling units. The commission asked the planning board to verify the age of the accessory structure’s components (noting some additions may post‑date the ordinance’s eligibility cutoff) and to confirm which portions of the building are original so the commission can advise on character‑defining features.

Separately, commissioners previewed proposed designs and vendor pricing for a five‑ or six‑inch bronze medallion to unify preservation awards and signage across the city. Designers and commissioners favored simplified cityscape or College Hall motifs rather than busy seal elements; preliminary vendor quotes discussed in the meeting placed individual medallions in the roughly $200–$250 range, with a starter order (about 20 pieces) estimated near $3,000. Commissioners discussed possible funding sources, including a historic‑mission gift account, small CPA eligibility, and local fundraising to underwrite an initial order and program launch. The group agreed to refine design options and return with proposals at the July meeting.