Historic district commission approves replacement siding at 116 Auburn Street, 4-1

The West Main Street Historic District Commission voted 4-1 Wednesday to approve a certificate of appropriateness allowing the owner of 116 Auburn Street to replace the home’s original wood siding with LP SmartSide engineered siding and to repair gutters, trim and vents.

Staff presented the application at the April 23 meeting in council chambers at Midland City Hall and recommended approval, saying the proposed work would be “consistent with the West Main Street Commission guidelines.” Ryan, a city staff member, told commissioners the house — constructed in 1935 and originally sided with what appears to be old-growth cedar or redwood — shows localized cracking, splitting and warping and that proposed repairs include replacing gutters, repairing or replacing five gable vents in kind, and repainting the house to match the existing color and sheen.

The recommendation noted the proposed LP SmartSide product would match the house’s smooth face and color but would have a slightly deeper lap, reducing the reveal from roughly 7.25 inches to about 7 inches. Staff told the commission that the change in lap depth is driven by the manufacturer’s minimum installation specifications and that the new siding is reversible in the future.

Commissioners asked about options to retain or source original-style wood. During discussion one commissioner suggested exploring repair of existing boards (including painting all faces) or sourcing matching cedar or redwood from lumber suppliers; another commissioner noted that partial replacement can create small end-piece cuts that affect the visual run of siding. Chris Anderson, the property owner, said the engineered siding is available and that he has used similar material elsewhere, adding that installing trim and correct flashing is important to prevent recurring water damage.

After the discussion the commission voted to approve the certificate of appropriateness 4-1. The minutes motion (approval of minutes from Oct. 23, 2024) was moved and seconded earlier in the meeting; the transcript records a motion and second but does not include a roll-call or tally for that item.

The commission also discussed upcoming applications for work within the district and recognized commissioner Megan Woodward, who is leaving the commission after six years of service.

Votes at a glance: the commission approved the certificate of appropriateness for 116 Auburn Street (vote tally recorded in the transcript: 4 yes, 1 no); a motion to approve minutes from Oct. 23, 2024 was moved and seconded (vote not transcribed).