HDC approves west-facing solar array on William Street development; defers south-facing panels without prejudice

The Historic District Commission on Oct. 21 approved rooftop solar panels on the west elevations of a new multi-unit development on William Street and denied the lower, south-facing panels for now, saying the applicant could return without prejudice after site construction and screening were in place.

Applicant Tobias (developer representative) explained the project includes multiple structures across a parcel at 18, 16.5 and 16 William Street; the panels in question were on the lower roof planes of one of the masses. Commissioners agreed the west-facing arrays were acceptable but that the south-facing panels on the lower mass would be visible from the street and should be deferred until the full site—including screening and an intervening small mass—was constructed.

Commissioner Val Oliver moved approval of the west panels and elimination of the south panels for the moment "without prejudice" so the applicant can come back once site elements are finished. The motion passed on roll call: Commissioners Val Oliver, Connie Patton, Joe Paul and Angus McLeod voted yes. The commission recorded the approval with the condition that the south-facing panels may be proposed again after the applicant completes adjacent site and screening work and returns with photographs or a site update.

Tobias asked for clarification whether the commission wanted the applicant to construct screening before returning; commissioners said either to return after screening is in place or to request reconsideration once site conditions are visible.