COA APPLICATION #2020-0302: NORTHERN INDIANA HISTORIC SOCIETY INC. V. SOUTH BEND HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION

Home Browse Search

Commissioner Gelfman inquired as to when this was added to the house. Commissioner Downs-Krostenko approximated after 1910. Administrator Feasel stated that it was not in the 1917 Sanbom, but it is in the 1945 Sanborn map. Commissioner Gelfman stated that this house is rated Outstanding and the long -tern preservation of the structure should be maintained. Specialist Toering asked if there was an additional material in the gable above the windows. Mr. Hebbeler explained that it was just siding. Commissioner Deegan asked why the windows were being removed. Mr. Hebbeler explained that it was for energy efficiency and to cut down on the light in the space. Commissioner Stalheim stated this is the rear of the property, and that these must be allowed to evolve. These modifications can be reversed at a later date. If a simple, flat siding panel could fill the area in but still be reversible. Commissioner Gelfman conveyed that linking the front and the back of the house stylistically should be a priority. Commissioner Downs-Krostenko again reiterated that feathering the siding would be less stylistically jarring, which would be less of an overall distraction. The space is still a projection. Commissioner Gelfman expressed that she would like for the previous windows to be put back in based upon the Google Street view from 2018. Commissioner Downs-Krostenko clarified that these windows are visible from the street, and asked how many units this house is, and how many bedrooms there are on the first floor. Mr. Hebbeler stated that there are three units and only one bedroom on the first floor. He did not disagree about the aesthetics, but he is trying to make this into a useable, practical room. COMMISSION DISCUSSION: Commissioner Andrews stated that it is unfortunate that you can't `unknow' things. She would prefer the windows to stay. As the mother of three children she sympathizes with the applicant, but she is concerned that we are making a short-term solution that will continue to live -on after the home changes hands. Commissioner Stalheim stated that he agreed, but he is concerned for the children's space. Commissioner Tiffany expressed concern as to what kind of heat is in this space. The homeowner expressed that there is floor hot-water radiant heating. Commissioner Tiffany said from a safety perspective, perhaps higher windows would be viable. Commissioner Deegan stated that he understands the replacement of the windows but would prefer to see all the windows replaced. Despite the cost, he would believe that higher expense incurred may result in a better product. That there may be internal remediation, but they may not be perfect, but little people grow so you can work around it. Commissioner Down-Krostenko expressed that she is conflicted, and that this is retroactive, and that may be in violation of the standards and that the Commission must be careful or they won't be able to do anything. Commissioner Gelfman brought up the construction of the deck. Mr. Hebbeler stated that the project was incomplete, that it is a landing and steps to the rear door. Commissioner Downs-Krostenko asked if staff was ok with this stair project. Mr. Hebbeler stated that this was open for reconstruction and was temporary. He would like to keep what was installed, if allowed. Commissioner Stalheim clarified the accepted dimensions of steps per code, and the accepted distance between balustrades. Commissioner Gelfman stated that before the steps are approved, they should be code compliant. PUBLIC DISCUSSION: N/A