Commissioners used "other business" time at the June 18 meeting to ask about recent facade work at the Ray Building on Second Avenue and whether the remainder of the structure has been reviewed for stability.

A commissioner said she was surprised to see the facade largely removed after scaffolding went up and asked whether engineers had examined the rest of the building. Robin from staff explained the owners initially received a permit to remove unstable brick on the front-left corner after a hole and deterioration were found; as contractors exposed more material, additional instability was revealed, and the permit’s scope was extended to remove more of the facade for safety. Staff said that if the owner determines more of the building must be taken down, a full demolition application would be required and would return to the commission for review. Staff also noted insurance and litigation delays contributed to a slow-moving repair timeline on Second Avenue buildings in recent years.

Commissioners and staff said the ownership group has signaled intent to rebuild the facade to match the original appearance where feasible. A commissioner asked whether a facade easement held by Historic Nashville, Inc. applies; staff said the easement is held by Historic Nashville, Inc. and that questions about easement enforcement and the consequences of loss of historic fabric would be handled by that organization consistent with its easement agreement and associated contract language.

Staff said they will continue to coordinate inspections and will review any further permit applications for the property. No formal action was taken at the meeting; the discussion served as a staff update and a request for continued oversight and communication with the property owner and Historic Nashville, Inc.