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mits the necessary measurements, sizes, materials, colors and other pertinent data to substantiate his or her application. The applicant is also required to be present to furnish any additional information requested by the members.
There’s nothing about the procedure which ever could be considered threatening. The members exercise dedicated care in preserving the past and the quality of life while at the same time increasing property values. Contact some of the applicants who have received their Certificates of Appropriatness. Hear directly from them how they feel about the ARB.
Since Washington, Virginia, is registered in Richmond as an historic area, there are certain criteria which must be followed. The board does not play favorites - if the guidelines are not strictly followed, then sometimes some problems arise. However, problems can be resolved. The members cannot and do not bend the rules.
Theirs is a tough, thankless job, with no remuneration - a job in which it’s impossible to please everyone. But, given all the facts, I believe that they’ve done an admirable job so far, and with public understanding and cooperation, they can continue to perform to their highest potential. Visiting First Washington can still be experienced by visitors as “a step back in time.” You can be proud that the Architectural Review Board and the current Town Council have played a big part in maintaining that image.
Look around you and see how other residents have improved the appearance and value of their homes with the assistance of the ARB. Better still, plan to attend some of the monthly meetings - listen to the questions asked by the members and the answers given. Become familiar with the procedure first hand so you’ll reach your own conclusions based on fact — not hearsay. The public has always been invited and is most welcome - you don’t have to be an applicant. As an interested spectator you ask your own questions and receive factual responses directly from the members. The members are there to help you. At least, give them a try.
A time-worn maxim comes to mind: “There’s none so blind as those who will not see.”
DONNA FISHER Washington
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