John Ankiewicz

The Commission addressed several continuing applications requiring Certificates of Appropriateness. Key discussions included Option #7 for the renovation of the bandstand at 0 Washington Square, focusing on the design, ramp pitch, bridge slope, and railing materials (ultimately approving a concept with brass or bronze railings). For 20 Hathorne Street, the application to replace slate roofing involved substantial deliberation, resulting in approval for DaVinci faux slate, GAF Timberline NS for asphalt areas, and copper for corner caps, alongside the approval of specific Benjamin Moore paint colors. The window replacement application for 17 ½ River Street was approved, specifying Jeld-Wen clad or wood windows with brush-painted finish and bronze spacers. Regarding Tabernacle Church (50 Washington Street), the Commission voted to write a letter of support for the Historic Tax Credit Application concerning its conversion to affordable rental housing, which involves additions to the structure. No official vote was taken on lighting for the bandstand, and the request for a Waiver of the Demolition Delay for 73-75 and 83-87 Lafayette Street was noted as mistakenly scheduled. Other business included a motion to approve the minutes for the February 18, 2026 meeting and a review of a draft policy statement regarding chimney removals.

The Board meeting focused on strategic planning for 2026 goals and objectives. Key discussion points included updating urban agriculture regulations and addressing illicit activities reported at a massage parlor, noting the limitation of local authority regarding state-regulated bodywork establishments. Updates were provided on tobacco violations, specifically concerning a Salem Food Store appeal process that could potentially lead to a revocation hearing if they lose their state licenses. The Board discussed tracking the impact of Narcan distribution, confirming the city stocks Narcan kits with fentanyl test strips and training materials, though Plan B vending machine distribution was terminated. Other priorities identified for the year were Kratom/synthetic regulations, where coordination with regional colleagues was suggested, and the social consumption of marijuana, including how potential local opt-in for onsite consumption might interact with existing indoor smoking prohibitions. The Board also noted that terms for two members were expiring in March and agreed they would seek reappointment. Finally, updates covered influenza levels and efforts to increase vaccination rates in underserved neighborhoods.

Key discussions included the review of an application for exterior renovation of the 1833 St. Peter's Church, focusing on tower repointing, replacement of deteriorating plywood with fiberglass polymer for quatrefoil openings, and modifications to a side entrance. The Commission approved the application with modifications to door lite orientation. A continuation was granted for the Certificate of Appropriateness application regarding the Phase 2 Restoration of the Salem Common Bandstand, focusing heavily on proposed LED architectural lighting schemes and an accessibility ramp configuration on the Washington Street side, which aimed to balance historical preservation standards with ADA compliance. The Commission approved electrical upgrades at 415 Essex Street as a matter of urgency, stipulating removal of exterior conduit, while deferring the HVAC portion. For 35 Flint Street, the installation of cornice restoration materials, favoring PVC for moldings, was approved, with the security camera element tabled. The application for 20 Hathorne Street, proposing to replace slate roof with architectural shingles, was continued. The window replacement application for 17 ½ River Street was continued to allow the applicant to supply a material sample. Finally, the request for a Waiver of the Demolition Delay at 73-75 and 83-87 Lafayette Street was continued. Other business included approval of the February 4, 2026 minutes, discussion of policy statements on heat pump installations and chimney removals, and notification regarding a potential donation for tree planting at the Common.

The Licensing Board meeting addressed several applications for various licenses. Approvals were granted for a One Day Liquor License for ROOTS NS for a business function, a One Day Liquor License for the Ice Sculpture Festival Kick Off event by the Salem Chamber of Commerce, and two One Day Liquor Licenses for Eagle Eye Golf, LLC's grand opening, pending payment. An application for a Wedding Reception liquor license was deferred to the next agenda due to no presenter being available. An application for an Individual Fortunetellers License was withdrawn by the applicant following consultation regarding zoning requirements. Approval, contingent upon payment and Health Department approval, was granted for the Wicked New England Vendors Market application. Approval, pending payment, was granted for the Pride Marketplace Vendors Market. An application for an Entertainment License for live music at 24 New Derby Street was continued to the next meeting pending verification of the Certificate of Occupancy and establishment of decibel limits. An amendment to an Entertainment License at 24 Congress St. to add a DJ for special events was approved. In old/new business, an update was provided regarding negotiations with Quality Liquor concerning a draft agreement.

The meeting agenda includes the Call to Order and Roll Call, a vote for the Vice Chair position, the final artist selection approval vote for the 400+ Sculpture Call, a review and vote on the R. Douglas Rice Sculpture Swap Out Proposal, and comments regarding the Lore Mural Proposals for 266 Canal St. The notice also outlines instructions for remote participation via Zoom and the public comment protocol.