Commission to send second round of minimum‑maintenance letters focused on roofs and windows

Historic Preservation Commission staff said July 7 the commission will begin a second round of minimum‑maintenance letters to owners across the district, primarily targeting roofs and windows.

"This time, we're essentially looking at the rest of the district, and we'll be primarily focusing on, windows and roofs," a staff member told the commission, explaining the enforcement step. Staff said property owners with boarded or deteriorated windows should expect letters and that some cases may return to the commission for a minimum maintenance plan if owners need more time.

Commissioners asked staff to place progress reports on the agenda. One commissioner reminded the panel that at the May meeting the commission required application 25‑007 (202 West Harrison) to complete the northwest facade within 60 days; staff confirmed that item and two others (the Linz Building and the Victor Building, plus the old fire station) would be listed as required plans on next month's agenda.

Staff said the letters are intended to address the two most important visible aspects for Downtown — roofs and windows — and to move toward more conforming properties in future district surveys. The commission also welcomed its newest member, Lisa Kennedy, during the meeting and discussed scheduling an election of officers when the commission reaches a full roster.

No formal action beyond the staff update was taken on the minimum‑maintenance program at this meeting; staff will return with letters and required‑plan items at the next monthly meeting for formal tracking and, where necessary, additional commission action.