Feasibility committee assesses restoration options for San Damiano house

In the heart of Monona, city officials gathered on June 26, 2025, to address the pressing fate of the historic San Damiano house, a structure that has become a focal point of community concern. As discussions unfolded, it became clear that the house is in dire condition, with water damage threatening its integrity. The urgency of the situation was palpable, as one committee member noted, “the place is really just falling into a state where we need to come up with answers.”

The Friends of San Damiano have formed a feasibility committee tasked with evaluating the house's restoration potential. This group is actively seeking insights from experts in historic property restoration to determine the viability of saving the structure. However, the path forward is fraught with challenges. A recent discussion highlighted that to qualify for certain restoration grants, the house may need to be returned to a specific historical standard, which could involve costly renovations to remove modern alterations.

Compounding these challenges, the current political climate has jeopardized available funding. Tax grants and Certified Local Government (CLG) grants, crucial for restoration efforts, are reportedly at risk and currently absent from the budget. This financial uncertainty looms large over the committee's efforts, as they strive to formulate a master plan for the site.

While the committee has made progress in recommending improvements for the surrounding area—such as new paths and seating—the fate of the house itself remains undecided. The options on the table include either preserving the house or demolishing it to make way for a new shelter or event space. A decision is expected by the end of the year, aligning with the timeline for the annual maintenance plan.

As the meeting progressed, members were urged to formalize their discussions with a motion regarding the application for a certificate of appropriateness related to the site. The atmosphere was one of cautious optimism, with the hope that a clear direction could soon emerge for the future of San Damiano. The community watches closely, aware that the decisions made in the coming months will shape the legacy of this historic site for years to come.