Wiscasset Historic Preservation Commission on July 25 denied a request for a certificate of appropriateness for a fence at 45 Federal St., then reconsidered and approved the application, according to information Chair Susan Blagden provided at the Wiscasset Newspaper’s request.

Sherri Dunbar’s written request for a picket fence described it as high-quality white vinyl. A fence is “a necessity for my rescue dog and the new one I have coming,” Dunbar wrote. Her request maintained the fence she picked out aligns well with others in the neighborhood and abides by the preservation ordinance.

According to information included in Monday’s email about the meeting, audience members said the denial was not fair because the commission does not yet have an established acceptable materials list. The request then passed.

The panel has approved all but one of the 50 or so applications it has considered, according to the information provided.

Also July 25, the commission approved an application for a sign at Little Village Bistro on Gardiner Road.

Also according to the email, WHPC has been spending many hours researching how to improve and simplify the application process, improving WHPC’s online presence with the creation of a Facebook page and Instagram account, creating a Historic District mailer, and researching possible grants for restoration of town-owned property.

“The commission is also actively seeking new members that wish to participate in the preservation of Wiscasset's treasure trove of historic properties; our collection of historic buildings draws tourists yearly from around the world.  Everyone is invited to attend meetings and discuss issues not on the agenda.”