In a recent government meeting, a request for a certificate of appropriateness to replace a retaining wall and fence at a property on Morris Davis Avenue was discussed, following an unauthorized removal of the original structures. City staff recommended approval of the request, suggesting that the new wall be faced in either brick or field stone to align with the aesthetic of the neighborhood and meet preservation criteria.

The proposal includes two design options, both of which would require final material approval from city staff. The staff's recommendation is based on compliance with the City Code and the Secretary of the Interior's guidelines for historic districts.

However, a task force recommended denying the request without prejudice, citing concerns that the proposed design would not meet zoning requirements. The property owner expressed a desire to rebuild the old fence, but the architect's design for a new wall using concrete was deemed unsuitable for the district.

During the public comment portion of the meeting, resident Lisa Kennedy, a fourth-generation native of the area, voiced her support for the reconstruction. She highlighted safety concerns related to the existing conditions, including difficulties accessing the driveway and the potential for damage to a historic tree on the property. Kennedy also emphasized the importance of the wall and fence for security, noting past incidents of break-ins.

Kennedy presented photographs to illustrate her points, showing the leaning condition of the previous wall and examples of other retaining walls in the neighborhood. She expressed a lack of awareness regarding the historic designation of her property, suggesting a need for better communication from the city to residents about such regulations.

The meeting underscored the ongoing tension between preservation efforts and the practical needs of property owners in historic districts, as stakeholders continue to navigate the complexities of maintaining the character of their neighborhoods while addressing modern safety and accessibility concerns.