Historic‑resources inventory kickoff set; commission plans new district signs ahead of 250th

Commission staff reported a formal kickoff for the Westminster Historic District implementation plan that included the contractor (Alyssa) and a Maryland Historic Trust representative and announced a public meeting to present the inventory and solicit public input on March 3.

Melissa Thorne, city staff, told the commission the date will be March 3 and that the time is still being confirmed; she said, "The date will be March 3 at... I believe it's 05:30," and staff will post final meeting details on the city website, Facebook and by direct mail.

Staff described sign work already completed for Phase 1 (installed on Uniontown Road and East Main Street) and proposed Phase 2 locations (Liberty Street and Railroad Avenue). Discussion covered logistics for a phased rollout, adding reflective layers to improve nighttime visibility and whether the Streets department could print some signage in‑house to reduce costs and speed installation. Members also raised the possibility of coordinated banners, bunting and flag displays along Main Street timed with America's 250th celebrations.

The implementation plan will include a public meeting to invite homeowners and business owners to help identify historic resources and to collect local knowledge the contractor can use in inventory work. Staff will finalize the meeting location and post the schedule publicly; commissioners asked staff to prepare materials so attendees can view and rank proposed projects and so the commission can assemble recommendations for state reviewers (for example, for facade grant ranking).