Fairfield HDC approves routine COAs, adopts CitySquare portal for applications

The Historic District Commission approved several routine certificates of appropriateness on July 9 and voted to move to the CitySquare online application portal.

Motions that passed included approval of the 271 Westway driveway apron with reclaimed brick pavers, approval of historically accurate wood shutters for 740 Old Post Road (previously approved in 2008 but not installed), and approval of mini‑split condenser units at 698 Old Post Road with a stipulation that condenser units be screened in perpetuity. The commission also approved the replacement of composite asphalt shingles with cedar shingles and a revision to a four‑panel door for the property at 160 Harbor Road.

Commissioners discussed logistics for enforcement of 'in perpetuity' screening and noted that enforcement relies on building‑department code enforcement and citizen reporting; staff said violations typically are handled through the building department.

The commission voted to adopt the CitySquare digital application portal to accept HDC applications online, allowing applicants to upload materials and the public to view submissions through the city’s property search. Staff will add links on the HDC webpage and coordinate training with the building department.