HARB
History of HARB
The Bellefonte Historic District ordinance was adopted in 1970 to protect the historical character of the borough. The Historic Architectural Review Board (HARB) was established to review the alteration of buildings In the Historic District.
HARB is an advisory board and makes recommendations, based on the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards, to borough council for approval on any exterior changes. By encouraging appropriate alterations and new construction that fits in with existing buildings, design review in a local historic district helps protect and enhance property values.
In addition to being a locally designated and regulated historic district, Bellefonte’s historic district is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. This designation assists in preserving historic properties by recognizing their significance and providing honor to the community.
Purpose
The purpose of HARB is to make recommendations to Bellefonte Borough Council concerning the erection, reconstruction, alteration, restoration, demolition or razing of all or any part of a building or structure located within the boundaries of the Historic District and visible from a public right-of-way. The HARB is composed of seven members and at least one alternate member, with each member serving a four-year term. Of the seven members, one shall be a registered architect, one a licensed real estate broker, one the Borough building official, one a business person whose principal place of business is located within the HARB-regulated historic district, and three additional persons with a knowledge of and interest in historic preservation. Residency is preferred but not required.
Meetings
The HARB’s regularly scheduled meetings are at 8:30 a.m. on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month unless circumstances warrant a postponement. The Board meets in Council Chambers at the Borough building on 236 West Lamb Street.
| HARB Members | Term Expires |
|---|---|
| Samuel W. McGinley, Jr., Chairman | Term exp 12/31/2024 |
| Centre Region Code | Term exp 12/31/2024 |
| VACANT, Architect | Term exp 12/31/2024 |
| Phillip Ruth | Term exp 12/31/2023 |
| Maria Day | Term exp 12/31/2023 |
| Megan Tooker, Vice Chairman | Term exp 12/31/2023 |
| Patricia Long | Term exp 12/31/2022 |
| Alan Uhler | Alternate |
| Gay Dunne | Alternate |
| Gina Thompson | HARB Coordinator |