The Milton Historic Preservation Board on an add-on item approved a certificate of appropriateness for proposed signage and discussed exterior restoration work at the property referenced in the application for 6867 Oak Street.

The matter drew a staff presentation and comments from the applicant, Kate Bridal, owner of 82 Magnolia Estelle. Tim, planning department staff, told the board the top drawing of the proposed signs meets the city's size requirements while a larger option would exceed them and that staff would enforce placement and size when issuing a sign permit. "This top drawing here is within the requirements city's requirements as far as sign size is concerned," Tim said.

The board approved the design concept for two signs so staff can move forward with permit review. The board discussed related exterior work the applicant described as restoration of steps, matching bricks, and replacing broken decorative bands. Bridal said she preferred the lower sign and wanted both on the corner, and that she is hoping to open the relocated business in November. "We're hoping to be inside by October, but our grand opening is scheduled for November 1," Bridal said.

Why it matters: The approval clears key aesthetic and restoration questions needed for the business to obtain a sign permit and proceed with work on a building in the downtown historic district. Board discussion emphasized maintaining historic character while addressing accessibility and safety concerns with uneven steps.

Board members and staff noted the design is consistent with existing downtown signage and that sign placement and final dimensions will be verified by staff during permit review. The board also voted to permit a restoration approach that would retain or reproduce historic details where possible; the applicant said original fragments of decorative molding exist and portions could be adhered or replaced with printed replicas to reduce weight while matching appearance.

During discussion, members pressed for materials and long-term maintenance approaches for the stair treads and decorative banding; staff and the applicant said contractors have identified compatible bricks and products that can reproduce the original look while reducing structural load.

The motion to approve the certificate of appropriateness for the signage and to allow the proposed restoration work passed with one abstention by board member McCool. The board chair and staff indicated that final sign permits will be issued only after staff confirms compliance with size and placement rules.

The applicant said the Caroline Street location she is vacating is rented to a child psychologist and confirmed the business timeline and community-facing plans for a November opening event.

Votes at a glance: Certificate of Appropriateness for signage and restoration at 6867 Oak Street: approved; Mr. McCool abstained.