On Aug. 12 the Historic Review Board voted to rerate the property at 306 East College (application 2025‑795306) from a medium to a low rating, a procedural step that enables further action, including a COA to demolish or relocate the existing small house. The property owner, Susan Drab, said the 630‑square‑foot house sits on a large 0.41‑acre lot, is in poor condition, has not been updated in about 50 years and has been difficult to rent because of its condition; she said buyers who want to move the house off the lot cannot do so under the current rating.

Staff told the board the property dates roughly to 1945, is rated medium mainly for age, and that condition and alterations have diminished its historical significance. Staff recommended rerating to low and allowing a future COA that could enable salvage or relocation of the house. Board members inspected photos and discussed ancillary structures on the lot that could not remain as primary structures without a principal building. The board voted to approve the rerating to low.

Why it matters
Changing a property’s rating alters what formal actions are permitted under local ordinance: medium‑ and high‑rated buildings generally cannot be demolished; a low rating allows the property to be eligible for demolition or relocation review. The board’s action opens paths for the owner to market the lot for a new primary structure or to allow relocation of this small house.

Key details
- Applicant/owner: Susan Drab (introduced at the meeting).
- Property: 306 East College Street, roughly 630 sq ft house on ~0.41 acre lot.
- Board action: Rerated from medium to low; the board approved the motion by voice vote.
- Staff guidance: Cited Section 23.63(b) and design guidelines assessing age, alterations and integrity when rating properties.

Next steps
The owner and staff may pursue a COA to relocate or demolish the structure; staff noted that if the accessory structure remains without a primary building it could conflict with code and would require attention.