The Town of Stratford Historic District Commission has taken a significant step towards restoring the historic integrity of 78 White Street. During a recent meeting, the commission reviewed an application from City Lending Group LLC, which aims to rectify unauthorized renovations made by a previous contractor.

The property, located within a designated historic district, had undergone work without the necessary permits, including the installation of vinyl siding, roofs, and windows. Upon taking over the project, City Lending Group promptly halted all work and sought guidance from the commission to ensure compliance with historic preservation standards.

The commission provided recommendations for the restoration, suggesting the use of wood or wood composite siding and specific window and door styles that align with the district's historical character. The applicant has since submitted a revised application that incorporates these recommendations, complete with renderings of the proposed changes.

During the meeting, commissioners expressed their approval of the new plans, noting that the updated designs adhered closely to the commission's guidelines. After confirming that no work had been done since the last meeting, the commission moved to close the public comment period and proceeded to vote on the application.

The commission unanimously approved the certificate of appropriateness for the project, allowing City Lending Group to move forward with the necessary renovations. This decision marks a positive outcome for the preservation of Stratford's historic architecture, ensuring that future work on the property will respect its historical significance. The commission's actions reflect a commitment to maintaining the character of the town's historic districts while facilitating responsible development.