The Bethlehem Historic Conservation Commission was stood up by a signage proposal applicant at the Feb. 27 meeting held in the Rotunda.

As 322 E. Third St. was the only agenda item for the evening, the commissioners turned their attention to other business matters.

Filling in for Chief Building Inspector Mike Simonson, Bethlehem Director of Community and Economic Development Laura Collins, Esq. managed the online technology for the meeting.

Noting that appointing one representative on the HCC board instead of two from the Mount Airy district had been previously proposed, Chairman Gary Lader asked Collins about pending intentions by the city’s Planning Department to submit draft changes to the ordinances regarding the three historic districts.

While uncertain on the status of the proposed changes, Collins responded that the Commonwealth also dictates certain criteria for historic commissions including membership. She agreed to investigate further.

Vice Chairman Craig Evans remarked on the difficulty of recruiting members from Mount Airy, as it is such a small district.

The HCC’s ranks have been thinning since one member resigned in July 2022, another commissioner’s term expires in May, and a third has not attended meetings since September 2022.

The commissioners discussed the pros and cons of a pending “over-the-counter approval” process that would allow for a select group of proposals to receive administrative approval as long as they involve a “like for like” replacement that follows historic district guidelines.

Lader suggested the HCC revive their program of giving special recognition to building owners who have done an extraordinary job of renovating facades while following the historic guidelines. Evans agreed and mentioned that it should be addressed at the next meeting.

Before adjourning, Historic Officer Jeffrey Long mentioned he will be away on official business and his associate Laura Clifton will serve in his stead. The position is a contracted one and has no voting rights.

Obtaining a certificate of appropriateness is only a first step for business owners and residents in a designated historic district who wish to make alterations to a building’s exterior. The commission’s recommendations are later reviewed, and then voted on by city council before any project is allowed to proceed.