Crush Wine Barn granted administrative approval for fencing, patio and black paint at downtown noncontributing building

Sandusky planning staff issued an administratively approved certificate of appropriateness on June 11, 2025, for three elements at Crush Wine Barn (tenant Little Crush LLC): temporary weighted fencing, patio furniture within the fenced area, and repainting the Columbus Avenue elevation black.

Staff materials indicate the building is listed as noncontributing to the downtown historic district because of prior renovations. The proposed black paint is included on the commission’s approved color palette; staff noted the façade appeared already painted when the application was reviewed. The applicant proposed a black metal fence with planter posts and two gates aligned with existing building entrances; the fence posts will be weighted and not installed directly into the sidewalk concrete. The applicant obtained a temporary permit with Public Works so the fence will not remain year-round.

Staff found the fencing to be simple and highly transparent, the patio furniture modest in design, and the proposed paint color consistent with the design guidelines. Staff granted the administratively approved certificate of appropriateness on June 11, 2025.

Commissioners asked whether the fence is permanent; staff clarified the posts are weighted and the installation is temporary under the Public Works permit. Staff also noted they had contacted building owners where signage had been painted on windows without an application and requested retroactive applications to regularize approvals.

The administrative approval aligns with the commission’s practice of delegating review of nonpermanent streetscape elements to staff, though commissioners said they will bring proposals to the full commission when an application appears out of the ordinary.