During the recent meeting of the Historic Architectural Review Board (HARB) in St. Augustine, a significant discussion centered around the urgent need for emergency demolition permits due to concerns about structural safety in the face of potential hurricanes. Building Official Buddy Shaw presented critical information regarding the assessment of a local structure's ability to withstand severe weather conditions.

Shaw explained that he received an emergency request for demolition on April 22, which he initially could not approve after a site visit. He emphasized that his primary concern is the protection of life and property, particularly in light of Florida's history of hurricanes. Following a second request on June 2, Shaw sought assessments from engineers regarding the building's structural integrity. Both engineers concluded that the structure would not be able to endure hurricane conditions, prompting Shaw to deny the demolition request.

The discussion highlighted the urgency of the situation, as Florida has experienced an average of 1.2 hurricanes per year over the last decade. Shaw noted that hurricanes can form quickly, with those originating in the Gulf of Mexico potentially reaching Florida in just 1 to 5 days. This timeline underscores the importance of timely decisions regarding building safety to protect residents.

In addition to the emergency demolition discussions, the meeting included other topics related to historic preservation and community development, although the focus on hurricane preparedness and structural safety resonated strongly with the board members and attendees.

As St. Augustine continues to navigate the challenges posed by its historic architecture and the threat of severe weather, the decisions made by HARB will play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and well-being of the community. The board's commitment to addressing these pressing issues reflects a proactive approach to safeguarding both the city's heritage and its residents.