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December 5, 2014 To: The Historic Preservation Commission of St. Joseph County Re: 806 Leland Avenue, South Bend IN 46616 Railings on front and back porch and in garden -dictated by insurance company Dear HPC Staff and Board, I received a request from my insurance company, Indiana Surplus Lines on November 1, to install hand railings in 3 places at the property at 806 Leland Ave. in South Bend. I am happy to comply with their recommendations for railings particularly at the back door which is more than 31 inches above the ground. I am also willing to install a handrail in the garden between the sidewalk and the front porch where there are two steps up in elevation as you approach the front porch. I am somewhat concerned about the installation of a railing at the front porch itself. There are only 2 steps up to the porch and there are masonry supports which line the steps themselves. I am not sure what kind of railing could be added which would be in keeping with the architecture of the ornate porch:: I welcome suggestions from you. I have enclosed photos of the three places on the property that are candidates for railings. I have also enclosed photos of two other properties (one adjacent and one across the street) which have similar front porches and do not have any railings. Regarding the specific appearance of the railings,.I have enclosed a photo of a simple wrought iron railing that I believe will be innocuous and provide the appropriate safety. Along the side of the house there is currently a railing of the same type and material which protects the deep stairwell to the basement from the driveway. (photo also included) Using this material will provide a certain aesthetic coherence at the address. Thank you for your consideration, a^- rvA. Oc) '.Jr_k— Joan M. Downs 849 Forest Ave. South Bend, IN 46616 574-288-0559 jomdowns@iusb.edu