721 Forest Avenue_COA 2026-0106 DENIED

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SARAH ANDREWS PRESIDENT A CERTIFIED LOCAL GOVERNMENT OF THE NATIONAL PARK SERVICE ROSS VAN OVERBERGHE HISTORIC PRESERVATION ADMINISTRATOR EXCELLENCE | ACCOUNTABILITY | INNOVATION | INCLUSION | EMPOWERMENT 1400S County-City Building | 227 W. Jefferson Blvd. | South Bend, Indiana 46601 | p 574.235.9371 | f 574.235.9201 | southbendin.gov January 21, 2026 721 Forest Avenue South Bend, IN 46616 Dear Mr. Slaski and Ms. Spence, The Commissioners, at the regularly scheduled monthly Historic Preservation Commission meeting on January 20, 2025 denied approval of Certificate of Appropriateness application #2026-0106, which included the following application items: “Replace 21 existing wood windows with 1/1 double-hung vinyl EcoSky windows & two hopper-style windows.” In making its determination, the Historic Preservation Commission considered the appropriateness of the proposed construction, reconstruction, or alteration to the preservation of the historic landmark, specifically, and/or the Historic Preservation District, generally; the detriment to the public welfare if the proposed construction, reconstruction, or alteration were permitted even though it is not deemed appropriate; and the potential hardship that the denial of a certificate of appropriateness would cause the applicant. Following is the record from the meeting concerning your project stating why your application was denied: The staff report was presented by: Kate Himick, Historic Preservation Specialist Staff Recommendation: The home at 721 Forest Avenue retains much of its original integrity, including striking, original windows. These windows are foundational to the home’s character and architectural value. Overall, the windows are in good shape, but they need to be maintenanced by a skilled craftsman. Because restoration is an option and because the damage is not extensive throughout the home, Staff do not recommend replacement. Instead, repairs and alterations could be made to increase safety, comfort, and ease of use. Staff strongly recommends against the installation of vinyl windows to replace these character-defining windows. Based on the information provided prior to this public hearing, Staff make an UNFAVORABLE RECOMMENDATION for the replacement of the windows. The applicant was represented by: Jeanette Spence, 721 Forest Avenue, South Bend, IN, was not present virtually or in-person, but a letter penned by her was read on her behalf by Kate Himick, Historic Preservation Specialist.