Historic board approves local designations, grants multiple demolition certificates without stays

The Historic Preservation Board voted May 1 to approve two local historic designations and granted certificates of appropriateness for demolition on several storm‑damaged contributing structures, frequently declining to impose the 30‑day preservation stay that can delay demolition while preservation incentives are explored.

Staff recommended local designation for 106 Twelfth Avenue (local historic designation case 25049) and for 52170 Seventh Avenue (case 24068). Lynn Rossetti, contract planner, presented both nomination reports, describing the houses as well‑preserved single‑family cottages significant for architecture and community planning. The board voted to approve both local designations in roll‑call votes.

The board then acted on several demolition applications for contributing structures in the Pass‑a‑Grille Historic District. For each case staff presented post‑storm photographs and damage assessments and recommended demolition without a 30‑day stay; the board agreed in each instance:

- Case 25046: Certificate of appropriateness for demolition at 1004 Pass‑a‑Grille Way — approved without a 30‑day stay. - Case 25047: Demolition of contributing primary residence and guest house at 104 Twelfth Avenue (lot split previously approved) — approved without a 30‑day stay. - Case 25056: Demolition at 107 Twentieth Avenue — approved without a 30‑day stay.

Staff explained the 30‑day stay exists to allow incentive discussions for preserving contributing resources, but concluded in these cases that damage was substantial enough to make restoration unreasonable. In several hearings owners and agents confirmed they plan to rebuild single‑family homes consistent with zoning; in one case an owner said they would demolish quickly for safety reasons and had a demolition contractor ready to begin once approvals were received.

Nut graf: The board’s approvals clear the way for demolition on multiple damaged properties while formal design review, lot split approvals, and future building permits will govern what ultimately replaces the demolished structures.

Board members checked that applicants understood potential redevelopment limits — for example, owner rebuilding options may be constrained by underlying zoning or by pending overlay amendments that affect design review requirements. Several items also included staff guidance about temporary fencing requirements during demo and the city’s role in notifying owners about next steps.

Ending: Each demolition approval advances separate permitting or design review tracks for reconstruction; the board recorded votes on the designations and demolition certificates and noted that some redevelopment proposals will require variances or design review approvals before construction.