Geneva HPC approves replacement of three second‑floor windows at 218 North Fifth Street with homeowner‑approved design stipulation

The Geneva Historic Preservation Commission on March 18 approved a permit to remove and replace three upstairs windows at 218 North Fifth Street, with stipulations that the final patterned design more accurately replicate the existing windows and that the homeowner approve the finished design and color prior to installation.

The house at 218 North Fifth Street, built in 1885 by Joseph Hayward Mayborn, is notable in the commission packet for its Dutch Colonial Revival architecture and long ownership history. Assistant City Planner Jesse Muncy presented the permit review and summarized prior permit history and the applicant’s request to correct air and water leakage by replacing three second‑story windows on the front façade.

Applicant Dave Gerler, owner of Nextway Construction, told the commission the existing windows are rotted, have mold inside the frames and are non‑original replacement units likely installed in the late 1980s or 1990s. Gerler said his team proposes “pocket” replacement windows that retain the existing frames where possible, remove unsightly aluminum storm windows, and restore the street appearance while improving energy performance and stopping further wood deterioration.

Commission members questioned whether the decorative leaded panes are original and whether the proposed replacements should preserve that detail. Gerler said the decorative pattern is currently created with caming (lead) around single‑pane glass and that the contractor’s feasible solution is an art‑glass treatment (no caming or lead) set within a custom trim piece; he said his shop can reproduce the pattern closely but may have to modify the detailing to preserve operability and avoid breaking fragile leaded glass during repairs.

After discussion about alternatives and feasibility, commissioners conditioned approval on three items: that the applicant submit a redesigned pattern that more accurately replicates the current window design, that the homeowner provide written approval of the final design and color, and that the commission’s preference be for a lead‑dark gray (a leaded‑glass look) finish with black as the last option. The motion passed with all commissioners present voting in favor.

The decision is limited to the permit application before the commission; the contractor and homeowner will also follow any building‑permit and staff review requirements before work begins.